They are exploring an alternative that could surpass Ozempic in weight loss.
Recent research could transform the current approach to body weight control. A group of specialists has identified a process in the liver that, although still in the experimental phase, shows great potential for combating excess body fat and associated pathologies such as type 2 diabetes. The initial results were obtained in studies with mice and have been published in the journal Cell Metabolism.
READ: How healthy is it to drink cinnamon tea?The work revolves around a gene called Plvap, which, according to the researchers, may play a crucial role in regulating energy burning. This gene appears to be crucial in the process by which the body switches between using glucose and fat as an energy source during fasting. When Plvap doesn't work properly, the body continues to consume sugars instead of drawing on lipid reserves.
The functioning of metabolism: a challenge for losing weightSince ancient times, the human body has evolved to adapt to conditions of food scarcity, which required developing mechanisms to conserve energy. One of these natural responses is a slowing of the metabolism, which makes weight loss difficult. even when using medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy or Zepbound.
It is precisely in this context that the Plvap gene becomes important. Scientists emphasize that it is present in both mice and humans and plays a fundamental role when the body switches energy sources from sugars to fats. "When this gene is not activated as it should, the body continues to burn sugar as if nothing were happening," they explain.
Progress in the control of this gene could allow the liver to maintain active fat metabolism, even at times when it tends to slow down. The study authors' hypothesis is that this mechanism could "confuse" the liver into continuing to promote lipid burning. This could not only facilitate weight loss, but would also be useful in treating metabolic diseases such as diabetes.
A development still in its early stagesFor now, the findings have only been verified in animal models, so further research is needed to determine whether the same principles apply to humans. Although the effects are presumed to be similar, additional studies are needed to confirm this.
READ: These are the best infusions to cleanse the liver naturally.The process of turning this knowledge into effective treatment for people is long. Not only must the mechanism be validated in humans, but also a drug must be developed that meets all safety standards, including clinical trials. Still, the recent success of innovative weight-loss therapies has sparked interest from the pharmaceutical industry, which could accelerate the development of solutions based on this discovery.
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