Some Individuals Experience Inadequate Results with Weight Loss Injections
A groundbreaking study published in the journal "Diabetes Obesity and Metabolism" has revealed a strong link between genetic variations in the neurobeachin (NBEA) gene and the effectiveness of weight loss injections like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy (semaglutide), as well as liraglutide[1][4]. This research could pave the way for more personalized obesity treatment, where genetic screening could guide medication choice and improve outcomes.
The study, led by a team from the Cleveland Clinic, found that individuals with a "responsive" NBEA genetic score were up to 82% more likely to achieve significant weight loss with liraglutide and semaglutide[1][3]. Conversely, those with a "non-responsive" NBEA genetic profile were up to 50% more likely to show little or no weight loss with liraglutide[1].
The NBEA gene encodes a protein kinase A anchor protein, which is involved in intracellular signaling pathways[1]. While the exact biological mechanism connecting NBEA to GLP-1RA response is not yet fully understood, it is clear that certain genetic variants influence how effectively these drugs promote weight loss.
This discovery addresses a major clinical challenge: while GLP-1RAs are highly effective for some individuals, others experience little to no benefit[2]. Genetic testing for NBEA variants could enable healthcare providers to identify patients who are most likely to respond, optimizing treatment selection and avoiding unnecessary side effects or costs from non-effective medications.
However, it is important to note that the NBEA score alone is not sufficient to accurately predict individual treatment successes. Further research is needed to understand how NBEA interacts with GLP-1RA pathways and whether other genes or environmental factors also play a role. Large-scale implementation of genetic screening would require additional validation and consideration of ethical, regulatory, and practical aspects.
In conclusion, genetic variations in the NBEA gene are a significant predictor of weight loss response to GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic and Wegovy[1][2][4]. This breakthrough could transform obesity care by enabling personalized, genetics-guided treatment strategies, maximizing efficacy and minimizing ineffective interventions.
References: [1] Mariam-Smith, A., et al. (2023). NBEA genetic variants predict GLP-1 receptor agonist response in obese patients. Diabetes Obesity and Metabolism. [2] Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Study reveals genetic link to weight loss injection effectiveness. Retrieved from https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2023/03/15/study-reveals-genetic-link-to-weight-loss-injection-effectiveness/ [3] Mayo Clinic. (2023). Ozempic (semaglutide). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ozempic-semaglutide/description/drg-20468534 [4] Novo Nordisk. (2023). Wegovy (semaglutide) injection. Retrieved from https://us.novo Nordisk.com/product/us/en/pi/wegovy/wegovy.spmx [4] Diabetes UK. (2023). Mounjaro (tirzepatide). Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/treatment-and-care/medicines/mounjaro-tirzepatide
- The discovery of genetic variations in the NBEA gene could revolutionize health-and-wellness, as it may aid in predicting the effectiveness of weight loss treatments like Ozempic and Wegovy, as well as liraglutide.
- The Cleveland Clinic study found that certain genetic variants in the NBEA gene are strongly linked to the response of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and liraglutide in the field of medical-conditions like obesity.
- As part of the focus on personalized therapies-and-treatments in health-and-wellness, genetic screening for the NBEA gene could play a crucial role in nutrition and weight-management, by identifying patients who are most likely to benefit from GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, or liraglutide.
