Topic: Biology

Stanford scientists found a natural molecule that helps with weight loss and reduces appetite. It's similar to Ozempic but without its side effects.

Researchers at Stanford Medicine discovered a naturally occurring molecule called BRP that can help with weight loss. In animal studies, BRP reduced appetite and body weight without causing common side effects like nausea, constipation, or muscle loss. This is because BRP works differently than Ozempic, which targets receptors in the brain, gut, pancreas, and other tissues.

The discovery was made possible by using artificial intelligence to analyze a large group of molecules called prohormones. These molecules are initially inactive but can be cut into smaller fragments called peptides, some of which function as hormones that influence processes like metabolism. The researchers developed an algorithm called Peptide Predictor to identify where these prohormones could be cut into useful peptides.

The team found a tiny peptide made up of only 12 amino acids that produced a strong response in lab-grown brain cells. This peptide, named BRP, was tested in lean mice and minipigs and showed significant reductions in food intake and weight loss. In obese mice, daily injections led to an average weight loss of 3 grams over 14 days.

The study's lead author is senior research scientist Laetitia Coassolo, PhD, and the senior author is assistant professor of pathology Katrin Svensson, PhD. The team plans to begin human clinical trials in the near future.

Why It Matters

This discovery could lead to a more precise way to control appetite and metabolism, which could help with weight loss and improve overall health. Indian students can learn from this example of how artificial intelligence is used in scientific research to make new discoveries.

Key Facts

• Scientists at Stanford Medicine discovered a natural molecule called BRP that helps with weight loss
• BRP reduces appetite and body weight without causing common side effects like nausea, constipation, or muscle loss
• The discovery was made possible by using artificial intelligence to analyze a large group of molecules called prohormones
• The team found a tiny peptide made up of only 12 amino acids that produced a strong response in lab-grown brain cells
• Daily injections of BRP led to an average weight loss of 3 grams over 14 days in obese mice

Key Terms

Prohormones

Molecules that are initially inactive but can be cut into smaller fragments called peptides

Implications

This discovery could lead to a more precise way to control appetite and metabolism, which could help with weight loss and improve overall health. Indian students can learn from this example of how artificial intelligence is used in scientific research to make new discoveries.