Scientists discover 'sixth sense' in body that acts as natural Ozempic

 

Researchers at Duke University discovered an ancient microbial protein called flagellin, found on bacterial flagella, that's sensed by specialized gut cells known as neuropods. These cells use the receptor TLR5 to detect flagellin and signal the brain via the vagus nerve, prompting a sensation of satiety.

When mice received flagellin, they ate less; mice without TLR5 did not and gained weight instead, highlighting a direct gut-brain communication channel akin to a “sixth sense” of fullness.Some are dubbing this newly identified mechanism the “neurobiotic sense”, as it enables real-time, behavior-influencing communication between gut microbes and the brain.

Meanwhile, scientists at Stanford Medicine used an AI-guided approach to identify a tiny, naturally occurring 12-amino-acid peptide named BRP. When injected into mice and mini-pigs, BRP reduced food intake by up to 50% within an hour and led to significant fat loss over a 14-day period, achieved without common side effects such as nausea, constipation, or muscle loss.

Acting through distinct neural pathways in the hypothalamus (unlike semaglutide's broader route), BRP offers a more targeted and potentially safer, way to suppress appetite.

Both discoveries are early-stage and primarily tested in animals, but they illuminate promising new ways to manage appetite, obesity, and metabolic health by leveraging the body's own signaling systems.

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