For the past 10 years or so, biochemists have been exploring the mechanism of lipid synthesis and lipid oxidation and what can be done to solve the obesity problem. Currently, these scientists have discovered that if fat synthesis is blocked--on the cellular level-- then lipid oxidation will dominate (ie fat loss). We know that fat storage is no longer a necessity, for the chances of a famine here are slim to none. So, most of our adipose tissue is unnecessary (that's where the 6%BF and 10-12%BF kick in). So, by blocking fat storage, the body is forced to use up its remaining fat for repair and energy. Previous attempts included HCA (hydroxycitric acid), which attempted to block fat synthesis early in the cycle, but not at the rate-limiting step (this is where the cycle needs to be blocked). A cancer drug, c-78, was found to block fat synthesis at the step after the rate-limiting step. The problem here was it also blocked appetite, so the subjects never ate enough food for repair and energy.
The good news. Scientists at Baylor are working on a med that will block the rate-limiting step, thereby inhibiting fat synthesis and allowing for appetite. They believe that this med will be out in 3-5 years. In addition, they have located the gene that causes inhibition of the fat storage process; once genetic manipulation becomes the rule, then people can be made "fat free" on the genetic level at birth. If this comes out, it will change everything.
The good news. Scientists at Baylor are working on a med that will block the rate-limiting step, thereby inhibiting fat synthesis and allowing for appetite. They believe that this med will be out in 3-5 years. In addition, they have located the gene that causes inhibition of the fat storage process; once genetic manipulation becomes the rule, then people can be made "fat free" on the genetic level at birth. If this comes out, it will change everything.