A new NPY-antagonist strongly stimulates apoptosis and lipolysis on white adipocytes in an obesity model

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a 36 amino acid peptide released in central and per ipheral mammalian neurons, which appears to contribute to adiposity regulat ion by increasing food intake, thus promoting weight gain on animals. Never theless, little is known about NPY direct actions on white adipocytes. This trial, which was designed to test the possible effects of a new NPY antago nist, S.A.0204, on white adipose tissue,revealed that the administration of this novel molecule strongly ex vivo stimulates apoptosis and lipolysis in animals fed on a high-fat diet. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.