Body's Own Molecule Offers Ozempic Alternative

Stanford Medicine scientists have discovered a naturally occurring molecule within the human body, named BRP, that mimics the effects of Ozempic without the associated adverse reactions. This discovery, detailed in a March 2025 study in Nature, utilized an AI tool to identify the peptide consisting of just 12 amino acids.

In preclinical trials involving mice and pigs, a single injection of BRP before a meal led to a 50% reduction in food intake within an hour. Over two weeks, obese mice receiving daily injections lost approximately 3 grams of fat, while untreated mice gained weight. These subjects also showed improvements in glucose and insulin tolerance.

Researchers believe BRP's localized action in the hypothalamus, the brain region regulating hunger and metabolism, is key to its improved side effect profile compared to Ozempic, which affects multiple bodily systems. Behavioral studies in animals showed no negative impacts on movement, water intake, or anxiety. Human clinical trials are expected in the near future, with a company co-founded by the lead author planning to commercialize the drug.