A group of researchers, led by scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, has discovered a promising oral compound called TOFA that has led to significant weight loss in obese mice, according to a study published in Science Advances. Unlike other treatments that suppress appetite, TOFA appears to increase energy expenditure in the body.
TOFA’s Effectiveness in Weight Loss
The study revealed that TOFA reduced body weight in mice by an average of 18% without affecting their food intake or significantly losing lean mass. This result is notable compared to injectable weight-loss drugs like semaglutide, which often reduce appetite but may cause gastrointestinal side effects and loss of lean mass. Furthermore, some people regain weight upon discontinuing such treatments.
Dr. Leslie Pristas, a bariatric surgeon, highlighted the importance of preserving muscle during weight loss. Muscle mass plays a critical role in daily physical function and combating the effects of aging.
How TOFA Works
The researchers explained that TOFA operates within cells, inhibiting enzymes involved in lipid production and activating cellular receptors that enhance fat burning and energy production. The treated mice showed increased energy expenditure under standard and mildly warm temperatures without reduced activity or harmful body temperature rises.
The combination of TOFA with drugs like semaglutide resulted in more substantial weight reductions and better blood sugar, insulin, and triglyceride levels than each drug alone. After treatment, mice given TOFA maintained stable body weight, while those using semaglutide quickly regained it.
Challenges and Considerations
TOFA also showed potential for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) by reducing liver fat, inflammation, and fibrosis in mice. It did so without raising triglyceride levels, a common issue with similar metabolic drugs that pose cardiovascular risks.
However, the study used male mice only, and future research is required to evaluate TOFA’s effects on female animals. The compound hasn’t been tested on humans yet, so factors like appropriate dosage, long-term safety, or subtle toxicities remain unknown.
Dr. Pristas urged caution, stressing that while the findings are promising, it’s crucial to consider potential side effects when manipulating the body’s lipid processes. She noted that if the compound proves effective in humans, it might work alone or in conjunction with other therapies.
Commercial Interests
The study disclosed that several researchers involved are affiliated with ReRx Therapeutics, a company licensed to potentially develop TOFA-related discoveries from UC Berkeley.
Khloe Quill, a lifestyle writer for Fox News Digital, reported on this study as part of her coverage of health, food, and travel stories.
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