Scientists have successfully tested vaccines that may help to combat obesity and help weight loss, it was announced today.
The vaccines have so far been tested on laboratory mice – and led to the animals losing a tenth of their weight after four days. They then stayed lean for six weeks, aided by a booster shot.
The vaccines aim to stimulate a hormone called somatostatin, which increases metabolic activity.
The studies show no effect on normal levels of insulin or the growth hormone IGF-1. Both are affected by the vaccine.
But, reporting in the Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology, the scientists say more work is needed to check the long-term effects of the treatment.
Researcher Keith Haffer from Braasch Biotech LLC said: “This study demonstrates the possibility of treating obesity with vaccination.
"Although further studies are necessary to discover the long term implications of these vaccines, treatment of human obesity with vaccination would provide physicians with a drug- and surgical- free option against the weight epidemic.”
Effects of Novel Vaccines on Weight Loss in Diet-Induced-Obese (DIO) Mice, Keith N Haffer, Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology July 9 2102
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