Scientists create new microbes that produce anti-obesity molecules

A new microbe-based approach to treating obesity has been developed by researchers at Vanderbilt University.

The researchers have been able to programme bacteria to generate N-acyl-phosphatidylethanolamines (NAPEs), which are produced in the small intestine after a meal and are quickly converted into N-acyl-ethanolamines (NAEs), a potent type of appetite-suppressing lipid.

Following this, the bacteria was added to the drinking water of a strain of mice that, when fed a high-fat diet, developed obesity, signs of diabetes and fatty livers. Those that drank the water ate less, had lower body fat and staved off diabetes, even when consuming high levels of fat.

The team now wish to tackle the potential problem of treated people transmitting these special bacteria to others that might be harmed by their effects via faecal exposure, before human trials can be commenced.

Dr Sean Davies of Vanderbilt University said: "We are working on genetically modifying the bacteria to significantly reduce its ability to be transmitted."

This approach could be a promising new way of treating obesity at a time when the issue is gaining global prominence, particularly in the developed world.