In the quest for effective obesity treatments, Stanford researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking discovery: a naturally occurring peptide dubbed BRP (BRINP2-related peptide). This molecule mirrors the weight-loss benefits of semaglutide (Ozempic) but with a promising twist—fewer side effects. Published in Nature, this breakthrough could redefine how we approach metabolic disorders.
What is BRP?
BRP is a 12-amino acid peptide derived from the prohormone BRINP2. Unlike synthetic drugs, BRP occurs naturally in the body and targets appetite regulation with surgical precision. Its discovery stems from an innovative blend of artificial intelligence and molecular biology, positioning it as a potential game-changer in obesity therapy.
The AI-Driven Discovery
Researchers leveraged a custom algorithm, Peptide Predictor, to sift through 20,000 human proteins. By predicting cleavage sites of the enzyme prohormone convertase 1/3—key in hormone activation—they narrowed their focus to 373 prohormones. BRP emerged as a standout, activating brain neurons 10x more effectively than GLP-1 (the hormone Ozempic mimics).
How BRP Works: A Targeted Approach
While Ozempic impacts multiple organs (gut, pancreas, brain), BRP zeroes in on the hypothalamus, the brain’s appetite control center. This specificity likely explains its cleaner side-effect profile:
- Reduces appetite by signaling satiety.
- Promotes fat loss without muscle wasting.
- Improves glucose metabolism, aiding insulin sensitivity.
Animal Studies: Promising Results
In mice and minipigs (chosen for their human-like metabolism), BRP demonstrated:
- 50% reduction in food intake post-injection.
- 3 grams of fat loss in obese mice over 14 days (controls gained weight).
- No adverse effects like nausea, constipation, or lethargy.
Why BRP Could Outshine Ozempic
Current GLP-1 agonists, while effective, often cause gastrointestinal distress and muscle loss. BRP’s hypothalamic focus avoids these pitfalls:
- No gut slowdown or pancreatic interference.
- Preserved muscle mass, critical for long-term health.
- Natural origin, potentially enhancing tolerability.
The Road Ahead: From Lab to Clinic
Stanford’s team, co-founded by senior author Dr. Katrin Svensson, aims to launch human trials soon. Key next steps include:
- Identifying BRP’s receptors to refine its mechanism.
- Extending its duration in the body for practical dosing.
- Ensuring safety and efficacy in diverse populations.
Conclusion: A New Era in Obesity Treatment?
BRP represents a leap toward precision medicine for obesity. By harnessing AI and nature’s own toolkit, researchers have opened a path to safer, more effective weight management. While human trials are pending, the fusion of technology and biology offers hope for millions struggling with metabolic disorders.
“The lack of effective obesity drugs has been a decades-long challenge,” says Svensson. “BRP could finally shift the paradigm.”
Stay tuned as science turns this peptide promise into reality.
Image Credit: Katrin Svensson/Stanford University (BRP peptide structure visualized as atomic spheres and bonds).
Reference: Nature (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-08683-y
Funded by NIH, Stanford Bio-X, and others. Conflicts disclosed: Svensson and Coassolo hold patents and co-founded Merrifield Therapeutics.