The hormone peptide YY, also called PYY, can reverse congenital malabsorption in mice, according to new findings in Nature Communications.

With a single PYY injection per day, 80% of the mice survived despite a congenital lack nutrient absorption in their intestines. Normally, only 20% to 30% survive.

The findings, led by Heather McCauley, PhD, Division of Developmental Biology, indicates PYY may eventually become a therapy for human infants born short-gut syndrome, and possibly others who experience malnutrition, or develop intestinal infections.

Read the media release