Tetradecylthioacetic acid (TTA) is a synthetic fatty acid that is being investigated for its potential to promote weight loss and improve metabolic health. It is a thioester, which means that it contains a sulfur atom in place of an oxygen atom in the carboxylic acid group. This structural modification makes TTA resistant to beta-oxidation, which is the process by which fatty acids are broken down for energy.
TTA is thought to work by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), which are a group of nuclear transcription factors that regulate a variety of metabolic processes. PPARalpha, in particular, is thought to play a role in promoting fat burning and improving insulin sensitivity.
Studies in animals have shown that TTA can promote weight loss, reduce body fat, and improve blood sugar control. TTA has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
In a small human study, 12 weeks of treatment with TTA resulted in significant reductions in body weight, body fat, and waist circumference. Participants also experienced improvements in blood sugar control and lipid levels.
TTA is generally well-tolerated in humans. The most common side effects are mild and go away on their own after a few days or weeks of treatment. These side effects include headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and insomnia.
TTA is not currently approved for any use by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, it is in Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of obesity. The results of these trials are expected to be released in 2023.
If TTA is approved by the FDA, it would be the first new drug for the treatment of obesity to be approved in over a decade.
Potential benefits of TTA:
- Weight loss
- Reduced body fat
- Improved blood sugar control
- Reduced cholesterol levels
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Antioxidant effects
Potential side effects of TTA:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
It is important to note that TTA is not currently approved for any use by the FDA. More research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy for the treatment of obesity and other conditions.
If you are considering taking TTA, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. TTA may interact with other medications you are taking, and it is important to make sure that it is safe for you to take.
