GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Wegovy) have emerged as powerful tools for weight loss, but their effectiveness varies greatly between individuals. A new genetic test called MyPhenome aims to address this by potentially predicting who is likely to benefit most from these drugs.
The GLP-1 Weight Loss Conundrum:
GLP-1 drugs can lead to significant weight loss (20% or more) for some users.
However, for others, the impact is minimal, raising questions about individual variations in response.
A study suggests roughly 1 in 7 people using semaglutide for over a year see minimal weight loss (under 5%).
Genetics: The Potential Key to Personalized Treatment:
MyPhenome, a test developed by Mayo Clinic researchers, analyzes 6,000 variations across 22 genes.
It assigns a "hungry gut" score, classifying individuals as either positive or negative.
Those with a positive score ("hungry gut-positive") have a normal response to GLP-1's satiety signals in the brain,potentially leading to greater weight loss.
Conversely, "hungry gut-negative" individuals might have a weaker response to these signals, requiring alternative weight loss strategies.
Early Signs of Promise, but Further Research Needed:
A small study involving 84 participants showed promising results.
After a year on semaglutide, the "hungry gut-positive" group lost nearly twice as much weight (19%) compared to the "negative" group (10%).
While encouraging, the study is preliminary and requires further validation:
Larger, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are necessary to confirm the test's accuracy.
Potential Benefits of MyPhenome:
Identifying optimal candidates for GLP-1 medications could save patients money and frustration by avoiding ineffective treatments.
The test could also guide alternative weight loss approaches for those with a "hungry gut-negative" score.
The Future of Precision Medicine for Obesity:
MyPhenome represents a potential step towards personalized medicine for obesity.
Tailoring treatment strategies based on individual genetic makeup could improve weight loss success rates.
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Source: CNN
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