Australian researchers working on 'fat pill'

Researchers from the St Vincent's Institute in Australia, led by Professor Bruce Kemp, are working on a revolutionary 'fat pill' designed to fight obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

The drug, which concentrates on an enzyme in the body called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), is expected to mimic the effects of exercise, stimulate weight loss, block cholesterol production and lead to new treatments for diabetes.

'AMPK was naturally switched on during exercise to provide cells with extra energy. When activated in the liver and muscles, it helped to burn fat and stop its production,' explained Professor Kemp. 'Developing a drug to activate the enzyme would simulate the effects of exercise and promote weight loss. But it was not a miracle cure. The enzyme increased glucose uptake by the cells, paving the way for new diabetes treatments.'

International pharmaceutical companies are seeking methods to target the enzyme and Professor Kemp expects experimental drugs to be developed within the next year. Drugs should be on the market within 10 years.