Scientists discover drug that neutralises alcohol and…

Scientists discover drug that neutralises alcohol and sobers you up quickly

Scientists have discovered a hormone that could protect people against the harmful effects of alcohol - which has now been dubbed the ‘sober hormone’.

The chemical which is actually called FGF21 (fibroblast growth factor 21) is naturally produced in the liver and research has found that injections stopped mice from losing balance and coordination after the consumption of alcohol.

Those involved in the study believe that it could therefore help people with drinking issues - such as over-indulgence - sober up.

Senior author of the study, Dr Steven Kliewer, of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, said: "We've discovered the liver is not only involved in metabolising alcohol.

“It also sends a hormonal signal to the brain to protect against the harmful effects of intoxication, including both loss of consciousness and coordination."

It is understood that FGF21 regulates metabolism and appetite - in particular reducing sugar consumption. Animals that consume natural sugars evolved liver enzymes to break down ethanol - or pure alcohol.

Lab rodents lacking FGF21 took longer than littermates to recover following ethanol exposure.

“It also sends a hormonal signal to the brain to protect against the harmful effects of intoxication, including both loss of consciousness and coordination" (Getty Images)

Giving each test subject FGF21 sped up the time it took for them to come round and get back their reflexes. However, it did not counteract sedation caused by other tranquillisers like ketamine, diazepam or pentobarbital - which indicates that it is specific to ethanol.

Scientists explain that it works by directly activating neurons in an area of the brain called the locus coeruleus - which regulates arousal and alertness.

Results indicate the FGF21 chemical pathway between the liver and the brain evolved to resist intoxication. It may control a variety of cognitive and emotional functions to enhance survival under stressful conditions, the US team said.

Co-senior author Dr David Mangelsdorf added: "Our studies reveal the brain is the major site of action for FGF21’s effects.

"We are now exploring in greater depth the neuronal pathways by which FGF21 exerts its sobering effect."

Last year a study found FGF21 halved the intake of monkeys hooked on alcohol. Alcoholism is one of the biggest sources of preventable disease in Western societies - with thousands of people being treated in Ireland for problem alcohol use.

Regular drinking can cause cancer, liver failure, high blood pressure, depression, and other mental health conditions.