A molecule in the blood of pythons promises solutions for obesity

A molecule discovered in the blood of Burmese pythons could revolutionize treatments for obesity, according to a recent study published in the journal Nature Metabolism. This molecule, called pTOS, has demonstrated the ability to significantly reduce appetite and induce rapid weight loss in obese mice. Pythons, which can consume prey equivalent to 100% of their body weight and can go months without food, were subjects of a study that identified over 200 metabolites increased in their blood after feeding.

pTOS, produced by the intestinal bacteria of pythons, was administered to mice, which refused food and lost 9% of their weight in 28 days. Unlike existing medications, pTOS acts on the hypothalamus, the region of the brain responsible for regulating appetite, without the side effects associated with GLP-1 drugs. Although further research is needed, the presence of pTOS in human urine suggests a potential safety for its clinical use.