Reversed Genetics Boost Metabolism

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Scientists at the University of Southern Denmark made a unique cellular discovery that could open the doors for new solutions to one of the most common metabolic challenges know as a “dreaded” weight loss plateau. Normally, when someone reduces daily calorie intake to lose weight, their body adapts by slowing metabolism to conserve energy during food shortages.

The study about a gene called plasmalemma vesicle-associated protein (PLVAP or PV-1) was recently published in the journal of Cell Metabolism. This gene regulates how the body metabolizes carbs and fats. During fasting, the liver naturally transitions from burning carbohydrates to oxidizing fat for energy. But, suppressing the PLVAP gene in mice interrupted and reversed the effect.

Interrupting the gene’s process not only prevented the typical metabolic slowdown but offers promise for developing future weight-loss treatment protocols to potentially eliminate frustrating metabolic plateaus. Additionally, combining this approach with existing medications, such as MRC’s compounded medications, could provide long-term metabolic health benefits.

NOTE: The University of Southern Denmark’s PV-1 study on metabolism was initially published in the journal Cell Metabolism. The team of research scientists included Daniel Hansen, Jasmin Jensen, Christian Andersen, Peter Jakobsgaard, Jesper Havelund, Line Lauritsen, Samuel Mandacaru, Majken Siersbæk, Oliver Shackleton, Jonathan Brewer, Blagoy Blagoev, Nils Færgeman, and Kim Ravnskjær (all from SDU). Collaborators from Japan, the USA, and Finland. Danish scientists suggest that targeting the PLVAP gene could be key to overcoming common barriers by offering new hope for those with significant weight-loss goals.

How Cells Trigger Metabolic Changes

The Danish research revealed groundbreaking insights into the genetic mechanisms at a cellular level for managing weight loss and the underlying problems created by the notorious “weight loss plateau.” Normally, when the body enters a fasting state, it transitions from burning sugar to using fat as its primary energy source. However, when the PLVAP gene was deactivated, the mice’s livers continued burning sugar while redirecting fat to skeletal muscles.

This important discovery highlights an entirely new approach to this regulatory mechanism that controls liver metabolism during periods of reduced daily calorie intake and its potential for overcoming metabolic slowdowns during one’s weight loss journey. The findings also suggest new opportunities for improving the effectiveness of prescription medications like receptor agonists that mimic hormones to reduce hunger but often induce weight loss plateaus over time.

By targeting the PLVAP gene in conjunction with treatments, researchers propose novel strategies to enhance metabolism and sustain fat-burning during weight-loss efforts. While additional clinical research will be needed to explore the application of the Danish findings in humans, their discoveries also provide hope for better managing chronic weight-related conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and fatty liver disease.

Kickstart Your Journey for Weight Control

Prescriptive weight loss medications that were originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes have become a promising strategy for individuals seeking long-term weight management. These receptor agonists mimic the effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone, which naturally helps regulate blood sugar levels and triggers feelings of fullness. By influencing key metabolic processes, these incretin mimetics curb between-meal snacking while making it easier to maintain a daily calorie deficit without constant hunger pangs.

Unlike fad diets, prescription medications target the root causes of weight gain, such as persistent metabolic imbalances, and when combined with lifestyle changes, can improve metabolic health and wellbeing. Backed by latest scientific advancements and delivered with expert curation, our medical and non-prescription weight loss plans provide tailored support, personalized menu plans, and lots of one-on-one support, so you can adopt new lifestyle habits for healthy living and achieve long-lasting results.

At Metabolic Research Center, we’ve been personalizing the latest science-backed approach to help people just like you to meet their goals for weight management for the past 35 years. Visit us at the medical weight loss clinic Amelia Island to see how our experienced team can help you reach your goals for healthy living. All it takes is a quick email or call to learn more MRC’s science-backed weight-loss plans and schedule a free consultation as your first step toward restoring your metabolic health and well-being.