Gut-Friendly Weight Loss: New Research Minimizes Digestive Issues

New Molecule Shows Promise in Weight Loss, Bypassing Side Effects of Popular Drugs

Syracuse, NY – Researchers at Syracuse University have discovered a novel molecule that could offer a new approach to weight loss, potentially avoiding the unpleasant side effects associated with current medications like Ozempic and Zepbound. The findings, published in Science Translational Medicine, center around targeting support cells in the brain rather than neurons directly.

The research, led by Robert Doyle, Milton Professor of Chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences at Syracuse University, and also a professor at SUNY Upstate medical University, focuses on how the brain regulates appetite. Doyle explains the brain’s complex system using a simple analogy: “Think of each brain neuron as a light bulb and support cells as the components that allow the light bulb to brighten, including the wiring, switch and filament. All of those supporting parts beyond the light bulb play a role in making the light shine.”

The team identified a naturally occurring molecule, octadecaneuropeptide (ODN), produced by support cells in the hindbrain, which demonstrably suppresses appetite. Initial tests in rats showed that direct injection of ODN led to weight loss and improved glucose processing.

Recognizing the impracticality of direct brain injections for human treatment, researchers engineered a modified version of the molecule, tridecaneuropeptide (TDN). This new formulation can be administered via regular injections, similar to existing weight loss drugs. testing in obese mice and musk shrews revealed that TDN effectively promoted weight loss and improved insulin response without causing nausea or vomiting – common side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Zepbound.The key to TDN’s potential lies in its unique mechanism of action. instead of targeting neurons, TDN directly influences the support cells that already contribute to appetite suppression.Doyle describes this as a “marathon shortcut.”

“Instead of running a marathon from the very beginning like current drugs do, our targeting downstream pathways in support cells is like starting the race halfway through, reducing the unpleasant side effects many people experience,” Doyle stated. “We could trigger weight loss signals that happen later in the pathway more directly, potentially reducing the need for GLP-1 drugs or allowing for lower, more tolerable doses.”

To accelerate the development of this promising treatment, a new company, CoronationBio, has been launched. CoronationBio has secured licensing rights to the ODN derivative intellectual property from Syracuse University and the University of Pennsylvania and is actively seeking partnerships to bring the therapy to clinical trials, with a projected start date of 2026 or 2027.

Source: Geisler, CE, et al. (2025).Hindbrain octadecaneuropeptide gliotransmission as a therapeutic target for energy balance control without nausea or emesis. Science Translational Medicine.doi.org/10.1126/scitranslmed.adu6764

What specific strains of probiotics might be most beneficial for addressing bloating and gas, according to the text?

Gut-Pleasant Weight Loss: New Research Minimizes Digestive Issues

The Gut-Weight Connection: Beyond Calories

For years, weight loss has been framed as a simple equation: calories in versus calories out. However, emerging research in gut microbiome science reveals a far more complex picture.Your gut bacteria – the trillions of microorganisms residing in your digestive tract – play a crucial role in metabolism, inflammation, and even appetite regulation. Ignoring your gut health when pursuing weight management can lead to frustrating plateaus, digestive distress, and even long-term health complications. this article explores how to leverage the power of your gut for sustainable healthy weight loss while minimizing uncomfortable digestive symptoms.

Understanding the Role of Gut Microbiota in Weight

The composition of your gut microbiome isn’t random. Factors like diet, stress, sleep, and medication (especially antibiotics) significantly influence which bacteria thrive. A diverse and balanced gut microbiome is generally associated with better health outcomes, including easier weight management. here’s how:

Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) Production: Beneficial bacteria ferment dietary fiber, producing SCFAs like butyrate, propionate, and acetate. These SCFAs provide energy for colon cells, reduce inflammation, and can even signal fullness, aiding in appetite control.

Metabolic Regulation: Gut bacteria influence how your body processes carbohydrates and fats. Certain bacterial strains are linked to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced fat storage.

Inflammation Control: An imbalanced gut (dysbiosis) can trigger chronic low-grade inflammation, a major contributor to obesity and metabolic disorders. Reducing inflammation is key for successful weight loss.

Gut-Brain Axis: The gut and brain are in constant communication. Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters that influence mood, cravings, and eating behavior.

New Research: Minimizing Digestive Issues During Weight Loss

Customary weight loss diets often involve restrictive eating, which can wreak havoc on the gut. New research focuses on strategies that support gut health while promoting weight loss, minimizing bloating, gas, constipation, and other digestive issues.

The Fiber Focus: Prebiotics for a Thriving Gut

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that act as food for your beneficial gut bacteria. Increasing prebiotic intake is a cornerstone of gut-friendly weight loss.

Excellent Prebiotic Sources:

Onions

Garlic

Leeks

Asparagus

Bananas (slightly green)

Oats

Apples

Chicory root

Jerusalem artichokes

Gradual Increase: Introduce prebiotic-rich foods slowly to avoid gas and bloating. Start with small portions and gradually increase intake over several weeks.

Resistant Starch: A type of prebiotic found in cooked and cooled potatoes, rice, and green bananas.

Probiotics: Supplementing for specific Needs

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit. While a food-first approach is ideal, probiotic supplements can be helpful, especially after antibiotic use or for specific digestive issues.

Strain Specificity: Not all probiotics are created equal. Different strains have different effects. lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are two common genera with various strains studied for weight management and digestive health.

Consider Your Symptoms:

Bloating & Gas: Bifidobacterium infantis may help.

Constipation: Bifidobacterium lactis can improve bowel regularity.

Diarrhea: Saccharomyces boulardii is often effective.

Consult a Healthcare professional: A doctor or registered dietitian can definitely help you choose the right probiotic strain and dosage for your individual needs.

the Low-FODMAP Approach: Temporary Relief for IBS Symptoms

For individuals with irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a low-FODMAP diet can provide importent symptom relief. FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are types of carbohydrates that can be poorly absorbed in the small intestine, leading to gas,