MIT engineers working on a vibrating obesity pill

MIT engineers have developed a new method to control appetite involving an ingestible vibrating capsule. This capsule, when ingested, triggers stomach receptors responsible for signaling fullness to the brain — creating a sensation of satiety.

Animal studies showed a significant reduction in food intake — about 40% — when the pill was used 20 minutes before eating. This innovation could potentially offer a non-invasive treatment for obesity.

The capsule, roughly the size of a multivitamin, contains a vibrating element and is activated by stomach acids.

It aims to artificially stretch stomach mechanoreceptors, a concept initiated by Shriya Srinivasan, PhD, during her time at MIT and now an assistant professor at Harvard University.

This vibration mimics the natural process of satiety hormone release seen after eating. The study, published in Science Advances, shows promising results — including appetite reduction and slower weight gain in animals.

The current design of the pill allows for approximately 30 minutes of vibration after ingestion, but future adaptations may extend this time and include wireless control. The pill is safe, with no signs of obstruction or other negative impacts noted in animal studies.

This approach offers an alternative to current obesity treatments, which are often invasive or expensive.

Srinivasan highlights the potential for these capsules to be manufactured cost-effectively, making them accessible to wider populations. Further research and human clinical trials are planned to ascertain safety and efficacy, as well as optimal usage timing and frequency.

The study was supported by various institutions, including the National Institutes of Health and Novo Nordisk, and involved a team of researchers from MIT and other organizations.