New research out of Australia and Finland is challenging long-held beliefs about how the brain fuels itself, revealing neurons can utilize and even produce fat for energy – a finding with potential implications for treating a range of neurological diseases. The findings, published this week, center on a protein called DDHD2 and its link to hereditary spastic paraplegia type 54, a rare genetic disorder impacting movement and cognition. Scientists have demonstrated a pathway to restore neuron function with fatty acid supplements, offering a promising new direction for neurological research and potential therapies [[1]].
12:58 PM
June 12, 2025
Researchers have discovered that brain cells don’t rely solely on sugar for energy, but can also burn fat and even produce it internally when needed, providing crucial fuel for the brain. This breakthrough offers new avenues for treating rare brain diseases and potentially reversing neurological damage.
How a Faulty Protein Disrupts Brain Energy
A collaborative study conducted by researchers at the University of Queensland (Australia) and the University of Helsinki (Finland) revealed that neurons are capable of utilizing fat as an energy source and recycling cellular components to generate fat when necessary. This process hinges on a key protein known as DDHD2.
A rare condition called hereditary spastic paraplegia type 54 (HSP54) occurs when the DDHD2 protein fails to function properly. This genetic disorder impacts the nervous system, leading to increasing difficulty with movement and cognitive function.
Without this protein, neurons lose their ability to produce the fats essential for energy and normal communication, resulting in progressive motor and cognitive problems that typically begin in childhood.
Restoring Neuron Energy and Function
In laboratory experiments, researchers provided damaged neurons with specific fatty acid supplements. Within 48 hours, the cells demonstrated a restoration of both energy levels and normal function. This suggests a potential therapeutic pathway for addressing energy deficits in neurological conditions.
“We have shown that healthy neurons depend on fat as a fuel source, and when this pathway fails, as in cases like HSP54, it may be possible to repair the damage and reverse the course of neurological diseases,” said Dr. Mirja Juhola, lead researcher at the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology.
A Step Toward Future Treatments
The research team is now focused on evaluating the safety and effectiveness of these fatty acid-based treatments in preclinical models, paving the way for potential human trials. They are also exploring the use of non-invasive brain imaging techniques to accelerate the development of these potential therapies. Understanding how the brain utilizes different energy sources is critical for developing effective treatments for a range of neurological disorders.
Dr. Giuseppe Balistreri from the University of Helsinki noted that this discovery is not only paradigm-shifting but could dramatically improve the lives of individuals affected by rare brain diseases.
