Scientists discover natural hormone that may mimic Ozempic effects

Scientists at Duke University have made a surprising discovery: the human body may already produce a version of the hormone that drugs like Ozempic mimic. Ozempic, a popular drug for managing blood sugar and promoting weight loss, works by acting like GLP-1, a hormone that stimulates insulin release and controls glucose levels. Until now, it was thought that GLP-1 mainly came from cells in the intestine. But the Duke team found that pancreatic alpha cells, previously known only for making glucagon, can also produce active GLP-1.

This discovery could one day change how diabetes and weight management are treated. Instead of relying entirely on injections like Ozempic, doctors might find ways to encourage the body’s own cells to produce GLP-1 naturally. However, the research is still in early stages, and much more work is needed before this can be applied to humans.

Alpha cells can produce GLP-1

Traditionally, pancreatic alpha cells were considered simple hormone producers, only responsible for glucagon, which raises blood sugar. Glucagon helps the body maintain glucose levels, especially during fasting. But the Duke researchers used precise laboratory tests and mass spectrometry to look more closely at alpha cells. They found that these cells naturally produce bioactive GLP-1—meaning the hormone is in a form that can actually signal other cells and trigger insulin release.

In mouse experiments, the team discovered that alpha cells can “switch” from making glucagon to making GLP-1. This happens when an enzyme called PC2, which drives glucagon production, is blocked. Another enzyme, PC1, then helps alpha cells produce GLP-1 instead. This switch led to higher insulin levels and better blood sugar control in mice.

The researchers were careful to measure only active GLP-1, not inactive fragments that cannot affect the body. They also tested human pancreatic tissue from people of different ages, weights, and diabetes statuses. These tests confirmed that the ability to produce GLP-1 is not just something seen in mice—it exists in humans too.

This ability of alpha cells may act as a natural backup system. If the body is under stress, such as high blood sugar or metabolic imbalance, the alpha cells could step in to support insulin production and help control glucose. In other words, the pancreas may have a hidden way to help regulate blood sugar even without external drugs.

Potential benefits and challenges

The discovery has exciting implications for medicine. If scientists can safely trigger alpha cells to produce more GLP-1 in humans, it could reduce the need for GLP-1 injections like Ozempic. This could offer a more natural and long-term approach to managing type 2 diabetes and even assist with weight control.

However, there are significant challenges. Glucagon is still important for health, particularly during fasting or low blood sugar. Altering its production could cause dangerous imbalances. The researchers also need to figure out how to reliably switch alpha cells to produce GLP-1 in living humans, rather than just in isolated tissue samples in a lab. Long-term safety and potential side effects are still unknown.

Despite these challenges, the discovery is promising. It shows that our bodies may have untapped biological mechanisms that can help regulate critical processes like blood sugar management. Alpha cells acting as mini-factories for GLP-1 is a reminder that even well-studied organs like the pancreas can hold surprises.

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Experts caution that while this research is exciting, it does not mean people should stop using prescribed medications. Current treatments like Ozempic are proven to be effective and safe when used under medical guidance. The new findings may eventually provide complementary approaches, not immediate replacements.

The next steps for researchers will include finding safe ways to enhance GLP-1 production in humans and understanding the long-term effects of such interventions. If successful, this could reduce the reliance on synthetic drugs and offer a more natural way to maintain blood sugar balance.

In conclusion, the Duke University study highlights a fascinating feature of pancreatic alpha cells: their hidden flexibility to produce GLP-1 in addition to glucagon. This discovery opens new doors for research on diabetes and obesity treatments. While practical applications are still far off, it shows that our bodies may already have ways to manage glucose and metabolism that science is only beginning to understand.