In a new article published in Science Translational Medicine, scientists developed an
engineered fusion protein that leads to weight loss in
several animal species. The actual mechanism behind how this protein works in the body will surprise
you.
Previous studies have shown that obese mice, rats, and humans had elevated serum concentrations of a protein called GDF15 as compared to lean controls. Using this finding, researchers set out to develop a therapy using this molecule. Successful delivery of the GDF15 gene to different obese mouse models has been shown to reduce body weigh, food intake, and serum insulin levels. Because GDF15 is difficult to produce in substantial quantities due to its short half-life, scientists decided to generate different fusion proteins to increase its stability and to produce higher yields. Two of the fusion proteins were able to effectively decrease body weights for obese mice and cynomolgus monkeys. Animals on a consistent GDF15 regimen, surprisingly exhibited an altered food preference when presented a choice. Animals on the GDF15 regimen, began to choose a lower calorie option when given a choice between standard food and extra-rich condensed milk diet as compared to the control mice which always choose the extra rich milk diet. Researchers deduced that the change of behavior is because GDF15 activated a population of nerve cells called AP neurons that make up a portion of the gut-brain axis. More research will need to be conducted to determine the exact pathway GDF15 is acting upon, but the results are promising as a potential new therapy treatment for patients who struggle with obesity and other related health concerns.
Long-acting MIC-1/GDF15 molecules to treat obesity: Evidence from mice to monkeys (October 2017)
New to the GenScript newspage? Feel free to take a look at our Protein Expression and our Recombinant Antibodies service pages.
