A vaccine against weight gain could be on the horizon, according to new research from the University of Colorado Boulder.
The research shows that a particular strain of bacteria known as M. vaccae could help prevent obesity by reducing inflammation.
Chris Lowry is a professor of integrative physiology at CU and led the research. His study found that
he could prevent mice from becoming overweight even when they were raised on the equivalent of an all-McDonald’s diet. When his team injected mice with
M. vaccae, the junk food mice gained no more weight than mice with healthy diets.
Lowry spoke with Erin O’Toole about this research, and why he thinks it’s a promising solution for weight gain.
Correction: An earlier version of this episode gave the incorrect last name for Chris Lowry’s colleague who helped with the research. The colleague’s name is Luke Desmond.
* * * * *
Sign up for the In The NoCo newsletter: Visit
KUNC.org Questions? Feedback? Story ideas? Email us:
NOCO@KUNC.org Like what you're hearing? Help more people discover In The NoCo by rating the show on your favorite podcast app. Thanks!
Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole
Producer: Ariel Lavery
Executive Producer: Brad Turner
Theme music by Robbie Reverb
Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.
What is In The NOCO?
KUNC's In The NOCO is a daily look at the stories, news, people and issues important to you. It's a window to the communities along the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The show explores the big stories of the day, bringing context and insight to issues that matter. And because life in Northern Colorado is a balance of work and play, we explore the lighter side of news, highlighting what makes this state such an incredible place to live.