Body's Own GLP-1: A New Hope for Weight Loss and Diabetes?

Two biotech startups, RenBio and Fractyl Health, are exploring innovative ways to help the body produce more GLP-1, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. Their goal is to develop gene therapies that can turn cells into tiny factories producing GLP-1, potentially offering a long-lasting solution for weight loss and diabetes management. RenBio's approach involves injecting a ring of DNA, called a plasmid, into muscle cells. This DNA carries instructions for producing a protein similar to the active ingredient in popular weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. The company's initial tests in mice showed promising results, with treated mice losing about 15% of their body weight and maintaining it for at least a year. RenBio hopes to begin testing this platform in humans next year, with a focus on creating antibodies against the Zika virus. Fractyl Health, on the other hand, uses a more traditional gene therapy technique involving a small virus called an adeno-associated virus. This virus delivers DNA instructions directly to the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The company's tests in mice and pigs have been successful, with treated mice losing about 20% of their body weight within three weeks. Fractyl has filed regulatory paperwork in the US to start human trials and anticipates seeing human data in 2026.While these therapies hold promise, there are also risks involved. Gene therapy can trigger immune responses or introduce errors into the genomes of cells, potentially leading to cancer. Additionally, there is debate over whether gene therapy should be used for non-disease treatments, such as weight loss and diabetes management. Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of these therapies are significant. They could offer a long-lasting solution for weight loss and diabetes management, potentially reducing the need for ongoing medication. Moreover, they could help people regain control over their appetite and health in a food environment where processed foods are widely available and engineered to trick the brain into eating unhealthy amounts. However, it's important to note that these therapies are still in the early stages of development, and much more research is needed to determine their safety and effectiveness in humans. As with any medical treatment, it's crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions.