Imperial College begins trials of anti-obesity microchip

UK-based scientists have designed an 'intelligent' microchip which they claim can suppress appetite.

Animal trials of the electronic implant, which is only a few millimetres across, are about to begin and its makers say it could provide a more effective alternative to gastric band surgery.

The chip is attached to the vagus nerve which plays a role in appetite as well as a host of other functions within the body.

Human trials of the implant could begin within three years.

The BBC's Neil Bowdler met the people leading the project, Professor Chris Toumazou and Professor Sir Stephen Bloom of Imperial College London.