RATS RECEIVING THE SLIMMING AGENT OLEOYL-ESTRONE IN LIPOSOMES (MERLIN-2) DECREASE FOOD-INTAKE BUT MAINTAIN THERMOGENESIS

Oleoyl-estrone given i.v - incorporated in liposomes to mimic lipoprot ein delivery - (Merlin-2) to normal weight mts, induces a dose-depende nt weight loss. Analysis of body composition showed that body protein concentration was preserved and fat stores wasted. The respiratory quo tient was consistent with the massive oxidation of body fat, since the diet contained practically no lipid. Appetite was affected by Merlin- 2, and thus food intake shoved a transient decrease. But oxygen consum ption land basal metabolic rates) was kept practically unchanged at th e levels of the controls, i. e. higher than needed to oxidize the food ingested during the weight loss period. Brown adipose tissue uncoupli ng protein levels were proportionally preserved with a 2-week treatmen t, bur it lost a substantial amount of lipid. In conclusion, Merlin-2 is a slimming agent with considerable potential given its powerful fat -wasting action, since it maintains thermogenesis despite lowered ener gy intake.