A team of American scientists discovered a new antibody which can help individuals lose weight by suppressing their appetite.

According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, GHR-11E11, an antibody catalyst, increases the metabolic rate in fasting mice and curbs their appetite.

The study showed that the antibody counteracts ghrelin, a gastric hormone responsible for promoting weight gain and fat storage, and therefore prevents eating even during periods of calorie restriction.

Scientists are optimistic that the findings of this study will pave the way for the development of an antibody-based therapy which can help individuals lose and maintain their weight.

They also claimed that considering the fact that obesity has multiple underlying causes, the antibody-based treatment can only be effective in case combined with other weight-loss strategies including medicinal, nutritional and exercise approaches.