Japan Develops Unexpected Weight Loss Method

Breakthrough in medicine: Japanese scientists develop "one-time" gene therapy against obesity and diabetes

A revolutionary development by scientists from Osaka University could completely change the approach to fighting excess weight and diabetes. Instead of tedious regular injections of weight loss drugs, researchers have proposed a one-time genetic intervention, after which the body independently produces the necessary medicinal substance. The research results are published in the authoritative scientific journal Communications Medicine.

The innovative method differs from traditional gene therapy. Japanese scientists did not correct existing mutations, but introduced into the liver cells of experimental mice a completely new gene responsible for the synthesis of exenatide — an analog of the GLP-1 hormone. This hormone is known for its ability to reduce appetite and improve metabolism. Exenatide is already used in approved medications for treating diabetes and weight reduction, but usually requires regular administration.

"Our approach combined the advantages of gene therapy and biological drugs," explained the research leader Keiichiro Suzuki. "We have shown that it is possible to introduce a gene into the body, and the cells themselves will begin to produce the necessary drug for several months, without the need for constant injections."

The results of the experiment are impressive: in mice that received gene therapy, the concentration of exenatide in the blood remained stable over a long period. The animals consumed less food, gained weight more slowly, and demonstrated improved glucose absorption. What is particularly important — no side effects were detected.

Scientists emphasize that the developed method can find application not only in the treatment of obesity but also other chronic diseases not associated with specific genetic disorders — such as type 2 diabetes and various inflammatory processes.

If further research confirms the effectiveness and safety of the method, it could become the foundation for creating fundamentally new, long-term therapeutic solutions that will significantly improve patients' quality of life and free them from the need for constant injections.