Scientists have discovered yet another reason to raise your wine glass. A newly identified compound found in red wine, grapes and other fruits -- similar in structure to health-boosting resveratrol – appears to block the development of fat cells in the human body.
The finding, by Purdue University researchers, determined the compound – known as piceatannol – stops cellular processes that allow fat cells to develop and grow. The study, reported in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, opens the door to a potential new method to control obesity.

"Piceatannol actually alters the … process in which early stage fat cells become mature fat cells," said lead researcher Kee-Hong Kim, an assistant professor of food science.
The new substance is similar in structure to resveratrol - the compound in red wine, grapes and peanuts thought to combat cancer, heart disease and neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers said resveratrol is converted to piceatannol in humans after consumption.

Piceatannol is one of several compounds Kim and colleagues are studying for potential health benefits. It is also present in different amounts in red grape seeds and skin, blueberries, passion fruit and other fruits.