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Abu Dhabi Scientists Create Electronic Appetite Regulation Pill
The tiny device utilizes electrodes to stabilize and regulate the gut-brain axis, which can help control appetite and treat several diseases.
A research team from NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), overseen by Professor Khalil Ramadi, has created a groundbreaking “ingestible electroceutical device” known as the FLASH system. The pill-shaped device modulates the signaling pathway between the digestive tract and the central nervous system and is administered like a regular ingestible capsule tablet.
Featuring surface electrodes that deliver stimulation to the stomach’s mucosal tissues, the non-invasive device bypasses gastric acids to achieve direct electrode-to-tissue contact. The ingestible pill is powered by tiny batteries, delivering stimulation for around 20 minutes before being excreted by the body — a process that can take up to two weeks, depending on the size of the human or animal test subject.
“FLASH is one of the first ingestible electroceuticals that can regulate precise neurohormonal circuits while avoiding the discomfort patients can experience with invasive treatments,” says Professor Khalil Ramadi, NYU Abu Dhabi.
Researchers on the FLASH project were inspired by the unique skin surface properties of the Australian Thorny Devil Lizard, whose skin can efficiently wick away surface moisture. The pill replicates this process by using grooved surface patterns and hydrophilic properties that enable it to be ingested and excreted without side effects.
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During testing, scientists noted that the capsule modulated the release of the hormone ghrelin, which the body uses to stimulate hunger. Regular hormone medications have poor bioavailability in oral form, requiring an injection to administer. The FLASH system, on the other hand, can target very specific gastric-hormonal pathways through simple oral administration.
The FLASH pill shows promise against a wide range of diseases, including metabolic, gastrointestinal, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Unfortunately, the device requires further preclinical testing before being ready for the public market. However, the development team has set a goal of creating an advanced prototype for human trials within five years.
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Google To Launch AI Hub In Saudi Arabia, Aiming For $71B GDP Boost
The tech giant also plans to develop local AI solutions, and train regional talent to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Google has announced plans to set up a cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Saudi Arabia, a move aimed at accelerating technological growth and economic development across the wider gulf region. The ambitious project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an initiative that champions technology and innovation as central to economic diversification away from the oil industry.
According to Google, the hub has the potential to contribute as much as $71 billion to Saudi Arabia’s economy. The initiative will likely speed up the adoption of AI across industries such as healthcare, retail, and financial services — not only within Saudi Arabia but also throughout the wider MENA region and beyond.
Yasir Al Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), highlighted the importance of the project for the Kingdom: “This partnership demonstrates PIF’s dedication to fostering an AI-friendly environment through investments in human capital and technology, upskilling thousands with cutting-edge tools to support our sustainable and innovative infrastructure goals,” he explained. Al Rumayyan also emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s combination of sector knowledge and long-term investment strategies makes it an ideal environment for global technology partnerships.
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A central aim of Google’s initiative is nurturing local talent. The AI hub will offer a range of training, research, and collaboration opportunities for developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs within Saudi Arabia. Google envisions training “millions” of people, helping to create a robust innovation ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship and ensures economic benefits reach all segments of society.
As international technology giants increasingly look to develop solutions tailored to regional needs, Google’s initiative reflects a progressive approach that leverages the strengths of local markets. With the potential to inject billions into the economy and strengthen digital capacities, Saudi Arabia could soon emerge as a prominent center for AI innovation in the Middle East.
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