Innovative Approach to Treating Obesity with New Metabolism-Targeting Drug

Recent advancements in obesity treatment were highlighted at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) annual conference in Vienna, revealing a groundbreaking drug designed to address the root causes of obesity. Unlike traditional therapies such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide, which primarily suppress appetite and induce weight loss, this novel medication seeks to reprogram the body’s metabolism for sustainable results.

Current obesity medications effectively reduce weight by curbing hunger, but many individuals regain lost weight after discontinuation. Experts recognize that obesity is a complex condition involving disrupted lipid and glucose metabolism, changes in adipose tissue, and mitochondrial dysfunction. To tackle these issues comprehensively, researchers from Resalis Therapeutics developed an antisense oligonucleotide called RES-010. This small synthetic genetic fragment targets miR-22, a master regulator involved in lipid breakdown, mitochondrial activity, and fat tissue remodeling.

Administered weekly via subcutaneous injection, RES-010 aims to reprogram the body's metabolic pathways rather than merely suppress appetite, offering the promise of lasting weight management. Preclinical studies in obese mice demonstrated significant weight reduction—approximately 12% more weight loss than untreated controls—achieved gradually over five months without increased food intake, indicating metabolic reprogramming rather than appetite suppression. Notably, treated mice maintained their weight loss after stopping the therapy.

Further tests in non-human primates revealed that RES-010 selectively targets fat mass, significantly reducing fat while preserving lean muscle mass—an important consideration since rapid weight loss from diet or certain drugs can lead to muscle and bone loss. In these studies, primates lost about 15% of fat mass and only 1% of lean mass over ten weeks. After cessation of semaglutide, animals often regained weight, but those receiving RES-010, especially in combination with semaglutide, sustained their weight loss without rebounds.

Importantly, no significant side effects were observed in the animal studies. The mechanism of RES-010 involves reprogramming how cells handle fats and energy, including enhancing mitochondrial function and converting white fat into energy-burning brown fat. This approach may lead to more durable weight loss and improved metabolic health, including liver function.

Currently, RES-010 is in Phase I clinical trials in the Netherlands with up to 80 participants, including individuals with overweight or obesity. The trial, which began in November 2024, assesses safety and side effects at various doses, with initial results expected in early 2026. This innovative therapy marks a significant step toward personalized, metabolism-focused obesity treatments.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-reprogramming-obesity-drug-aims-underlying.html