The Uruguayan biotechnology company Eolo Pharma has introduced an innovative drug, SANA, that reprograms fat cells, causing them to burn calories on their own — without suppressing appetite, dieting, or increased physical activity.
SANA acts on white fat and activates internal thermogenesis in fat cells, increasing energy expenditure. The effect is achieved by the drug binding to the enzyme AGAT, which is involved in energy metabolism. This helps keep metabolism active even at rest.
In the first phase of trials, SANA showed good tolerability, no serious side effects, and weight loss of up to 3% over two weeks while preserving muscle mass. An improvement in glucose levels was also noted, raising hopes for its use in type 2 diabetes.
The main difference between SANA and similar drugs is that it does not affect eating behavior and does not cause loss of appetite or nausea, as is the case with GLP-1 class drugs, for example. Its development took more than ten years, and the Uruguayan researchers now say they are ready for the next phase of testing.
