Thanks to a recent discovery from a team of researchers, the world is now aware of an anti-ageing protein which has the name of a Greek goddess. It seems that the Klotho proteins might play a very important part in treating certain diseases such as cancer or diabetes. According to the findings of this team of experts, this protein has a three-dimensional structure. This is what allows it to regulate both longevity and metabolism. The Klotho family has two receptor proteins. Its location is on the surface of the cells of certain tissues. The journal Nature recently published this research.

It’s interesting that the proteins connect to a family of hormones called endocrine Fibroblast Growth Factor. Those are responsible with the regulation of important metabolic processes in the liver, brain, kidneys and many other organs. In order tor each these results, the researchers from Yale University used a technique called X-ray crystallography. Thanks to it, they were provided with three-dimensional and high-resolution images of the proteins in cause.

The amazing Klotho proteins

Their research revealed that the beta-Klotho is actually the main receptor that can bind to FGF21. This is a crucial hormone that is produced when the person starves. So, when it becomes connected to the beta-Klotho, the FGF21 stimulates the sensitivity of insulin. Also, the glucose metabolism. This is what actually causes the weight loss in people.

Now, thanks to this basic understanding of this protein and its properties, new treatments can be developed for diseases like type-2 diabetes in patients who are obese. According to Joseph Schlessinger, the senior author of the research, FGF21 acts the same way as insulin would, stimulating metabolism and glucose uptake.

Moreover, certain clinical trials have demonstrated that calories can burn more quickly without having to change the diet. This is key to understanding how FGF21 actually works and what it can do.

Image source: defense.gov