Low-Dose Pancreatic Polypeptide Reduces Food Intake by 11% in Humans

Intravenous infusion of pancreatic polypeptide (PP) at 5 pmol/kg per min — half the dose used in prior studies — reduced energy intake by 11% compared to saline in 14 lean volunteers (2440 vs. 2730 kJ; P<0.05). Preprandial hunger scores were also lower in the PP group. Notably, these appetite-suppressing effects were achieved at plasma PP levels within the pathophysiological range seen in patients with pancreatic tumors, rather than at the supraphysiological levels used previously.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study in 14 lean fasted volunteers (5 men, 9 women). Participants received 90-minute IV infusions of either PP (5 pmol/kg per min) or saline on two separate days. One hour after infusion ended, a buffet lunch was served and energy intake measured. Hunger was assessed using visual analogue scales.

This study demonstrated that even a low dose of pancreatic polypeptide can meaningfully reduce food intake in humans, strengthening the case that PP functions as a natural satiety signal. It suggested that PP-based therapies might offer a physiologically grounded approach to appetite control, relevant to the growing field of gut peptide-based weight management.

Pancreatic polypeptide belongs to the same family of gut hormones — including GLP-1 and PYY — that pharmaceutical companies have targeted for weight loss drugs. While GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide have become blockbusters, PP remains less explored. This study added evidence that PP is a genuine satiety signal, not just a bystander hormone, keeping it on the map as a potential therapeutic target.

Small sample size of only 14 participants. IV administration is not practical for real-world use. Only lean volunteers were studied — effects in overweight or obese individuals are unknown. Single-meal measurement does not capture longer-term appetite effects. Crossover design helps but the study was still underpowered.