Injectable protein could be the new weight-loss pill
Researchers have developed a protein injection capable of blocking hunger and helping monkeys lose weight, according to Forbes.
The injection contains the growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) protein that blocks hunger by binding to neurons to send appetite-reducing signals to the brain. In the study conducted on monkeys, the injection was able to reduce the amount of food eaten by 40 percent and achieve a 10 percent reducing in body weight. Researchers hope the injection could one day be used in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
“We discovered that GDF15 delayed gastric emptying, changed food preference, and activated area postrema neurons, confirming a role for GDF15 in the gut-brain axis responsible for the regulation of body energy intake,” wrote the researchers.
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Cara joined TriMed Media in 2016 and is currently a Senior Writer for Clinical Innovation & Technology. Originating from Detroit, Michigan, she holds a Bachelors in Health Communications from Grand Valley State University.