Stanford Medicine Researchers Identify BRP Molecule Using Artificial Intelligence
Stanford Medicine researchers have identified a naturally occurring molecule that suppresses appetite and promotes fat loss in animals. The molecule, designated BRP, acts selectively on the hypothalamus rather than spreading across multiple organ systems like existing obesity treatments.
Assistant professor of pathology Katrin Svensson, PhD, stated that semaglutide targets receptors found throughout the gut, pancreas, and brain. That broad distribution explains why drugs like Ozempic slow digestive movement and lower blood sugar alongside curbing hunger. BRP targets brain cells in the region controlling metabolism and energy balance directly.
The discovery emerged from a computational search through roughly 20,000 human genes. Researchers built a computer algorithm called Peptide Predictor to isolate potential hormone fragments created when the enzyme prohormone convertase 1/3 cuts larger proproteins. That software narrowed an immense pool down to 373 prohormones and estimated the production of 2,683 distinct peptides.
Laboratory Testing and Animal Experiments Show Reduced Food Intake
Laboratory screening of 100 candidate peptides identified a 12-amino-acid sequence that increased neuronal activity tenfold compared to untreated control cells. Senior research scientist Laetitia Coassolo, PhD, led the team that advanced the peptide into animal trials involving lean mice and minipigs.
Animals injected in the muscle with BRP consumed up to 50 percent less food during the hour following administration. Obese mice receiving daily injections for 14 days lost an average of 3 grams, while untreated control mice gained 3 grams. Measurements confirmed that nearly all the lost mass came from body fat rather than muscle tissue, while treated subjects showed improved glucose and insulin tolerance.
Animal Trials Show Promise While Human Safety Remains Unproven
Animal trials revealed that BRP treatment did not alter fecal production or cause the digestive sluggishness typically linked to GLP-1 receptor agonists. Researchers note that animal experiments cannot establish whether the molecule prevents nausea in humans.
Svensson and Coassolo are named inventors on patents involving BRP peptides. Svensson has also cofounded Merrifield Therapeutics to advance the molecule toward clinical trials. Investigators must still identify the specific cell surface receptors that recognize BRP and find ways to extend its activity inside the body before human safety and effectiveness can be tested.
Frequently Asked Questions About BRP Research
What does the algorithm Peptide Predictor actually do?
Peptide Predictor analyzes roughly 20,000 genes encoding human proteins to locate sequences where the enzyme prohormone convertase 1/3 is likely to make cuts.
How long did the mouse trials last?
Obese mice received daily BRP injections for 14 days during the sustained weight change experiments.
Which academic institutions collaborated on the study?
Scientists from Stanford University worked alongside researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, the University of Minnesota, and the University of British Columbia.
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