Stanford Medicine researchers have made a breakthrough in the field of weight management with the discovery of a naturally occurring molecule that could rival the popular drug semaglutide (Ozempic) while offering a more favorable side effect profile. The newly identified peptide, named BRP, has demonstrated promising results in preclinical studies, potentially opening a new avenue for obesity treatment.
Novel Mechanism of Action
The peptide BRP operates through a distinct metabolic pathway compared to existing treatments. "The receptors targeted by semaglutide are found in the brain but also in the gut, pancreas and other tissues," explains Dr. Katrin Svensson, assistant professor of pathology at Stanford. "In contrast, BRP appears to act specifically in the hypothalamus, which controls appetite and metabolism." This targeted approach could explain the reduced side effects observed in animal studies.
Innovative Discovery Process
The identification of BRP was made possible through an artificial intelligence-driven approach. The research team developed a computer algorithm called Peptide Predictor, which analyzed 20,000 human protein-coding genes to identify potential hormone-like peptides. This innovative method narrowed down the search to 373 prohormones, leading to the discovery of BRP among 2,683 unique peptides.
Compelling Preclinical Results
In laboratory studies, BRP demonstrated remarkable efficacy:
- Increased neuronal cell activity tenfold compared to controls
- Reduced food intake by up to 50% in both mice and minipigs
- Led to an average 3-gram weight loss in obese mice over 14 days
- Improved glucose and insulin tolerance
- Showed no significant side effects on movement, water intake, or digestive function
Advantages Over Current Treatments
Unlike semaglutide, which can cause nausea, constipation, and significant muscle mass loss, BRP treatment in animal models showed:
- Selective fat loss without muscle mass reduction
- No observed digestive side effects
- Maintained normal behavioral patterns
- More targeted metabolic effects
Future Development Plans
The research team is currently focusing on:
- Identifying specific cell-surface receptors that bind BRP
- Understanding the complete pathway of action
- Developing formulations for longer-lasting effects
- Planning human safety and efficacy trials
"The lack of effective drugs to treat obesity in humans has been a problem for decades," notes Dr. Svensson. "Nothing we've tested before has compared to semaglutide's ability to decrease appetite and body weight. We are very eager to learn if it is safe and effective in humans."
