EU research clears way for obesity drug development
Scientists develop technique for reprofiling existing drugs
European Union (EU) researchers have cleared the way for the creation of new anti-obesity drugs by developing a method of identifying existing pharmaceuticals with proven safety records that can help consumers reduce weight.
The €6.95m EU-funded Reprobesity project seeks to develop new anti-obesity medication because safety requirements have sparked widespread bans on existing drugs.
‘This has led to a situation in which one of the most relevant causes of morbid-mortality in humans is almost devoid of effective pharmacotherapeutic alternatives,’ the European Commission said.
The project has now developed for the first time an effective technique for reprofiling existing drugs using ex vivo samples of human adipose tissue for developing anti-obesity properties. It has also identified bio-chemical traits indicating a propensity for obesity and the development of related health problems (such as diabetes) associated with the condition.
The project has especially focused on potential medicines targeting abdominal fat cells.