A new endoscopic procedure that involves burning the stomach lining may help decrease production of the hunger hormone ghrelin, according to researchers. Ghrelin levels are typically higher in people with obesity and rise when they lose weight, making it difficult to maintain weight loss. The new procedure, called endoscopic mucosal ablation, targets ghrelin by altering the stomach lining, where the hormone is produced. This change could decrease appetite and lead to significant weight loss, as shown in a small trial involving 10 female subjects with obesity.
The researchers reported that the trial resulted in a more than 7% loss of body weight and a reduction of over 40% in fasting ghrelin levels. Participants also reported a reduction in hunger by more than a third. The procedure, which involves burning the stomach lining in the upper portion known as the gastric fundus, aims to reduce the number of ghrelin-producing cells. This alteration could provide an additional treatment option for individuals who are not eligible for or don’t want anti-obesity medications or bariatric surgery.
Dr. Christopher McGowan, the lead author of the study and a gastroenterologist, highlighted the importance of having multiple treatment options for obesity, a chronic, lifelong disease that affects a significant portion of the population. The research team stressed that their procedure could complement existing weight-loss treatments such as endoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or potentially replace other methods in the future. By targeting ghrelin, the primary hunger hormone controlling appetite, the procedure aims to make it easier for individuals to lose weight and maintain their weight loss.
While the new procedure shows promise in reducing hunger and ghrelin levels, some experts have raised questions about its long-term effectiveness and safety. Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon, emphasized the need for more evidence to support the procedure’s outcomes, especially in comparison to other weight-loss methods. Concerns were also raised about the durability of endoscopic procedures compared to surgical interventions, as well as the cost and coverage by insurance companies for such treatments.
Dr. Steven Batash, a gastroenterologist, highlighted the need for more details on the study, such as the number of patients involved and potential confounding variables that could influence the results. He expressed concerns about the short-lived effect of the procedure on reducing ghrelin levels, as the stomach lining could regenerate within a month, leading to an increase in hormone production. Additionally, the risks of the ablation procedure, such as bleeding, perforation, and damage to adjacent organs, need further evaluation to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment.
Overall, while the new endoscopic procedure shows promising results in reducing hunger and promoting weight loss, further research is needed to confirm its long-term benefits and safety. The potential of this innovative treatment to offer a minimally invasive option for individuals struggling with obesity is encouraging, but more evidence is required to determine its effectiveness compared to existing weight-loss methods. As obesity continues to be a significant health concern globally, exploring new treatment options like endoscopic mucosal ablation could provide valuable alternatives for patients looking to manage their weight and improve their overall health.
