This could mean losing weight without breaking a sweat

Study:

• University of Southampton
• Published in the journal Chemistry and Biology
• Researchers describe a new molecule
• Compound 14 à could potentially help treat obese patients and those suffering from type 2 diabetes
• Works to trick the body into thinking that you have run out of energy.

How?

Molecule first inhibits the function of ATIC, a cellular enzyme involved in metabolism. This inhibition causes another molecule called ZMP to accumulate in the cells. The buildup of ZMP tricks the cell into acting as if they are running out of energy. AMPK, the cell's central energy sensor, is activated, causing the cells to compensate for the supposed lack of energy by increasing their glucose uptake and metabolism. This is what usually occurs when we exercise à in essence the compound is mimicking exercise.

Researchers tested out the molecule on two sets of mice

One group was given a normal diet. Other was given a high-fat diet to make them obese and impair their glucose tolerance (early sign of diabetes).

Results:

• Compound 14 was found to reduce blood glucose levels and improve glucose tolerance
• The blood glucose levels and weight remained normal in the mice with a normal diet who were treated with compound 14
• In the obese mice, compound 14 was found to reduce their elevated blood glucose nearer to normal levels
• Obese mice lost about 5% body weight
• Molecule did not appear to have much of an effect on the weight of the mice on a normal diet
• This could become the precursor to a “workout pill”
• Compound 14 could play an important role in tackling obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Researchers hope to develop compound 14 and analyze its long-term effects

Currently in the U.S., more than one-third (78.6 million) of adults are obese and 29.1 million people have diabetes. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90% to 95% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes