🧠 Discovery of the neurons responsible for the weight-loss effects of semaglutide

Researchers have identified the brain cells responsible for the weight-loss effects of semaglutide without triggering its undesirable side effects. This discovery paves the way for more targeted and better-tolerated therapies.

Semaglutide, a medication used for obesity and type 2 diabetes, works by mimicking natural appetite-control signals. A team from the University of Gothenburg discovered that certain nerve cells in the brain are responsible for its benefits, independent of side effects like nausea.


The scientists directly stimulated these neurons in mice, reproducing the drug's weight-loss effects. The absence of these cells canceled semaglutide's benefits, confirming their key role. This approach could lead to the development of more precise treatments.

The identified cells are located in the dorsal vagal complex, a brain region involved in energy regulation. This study enhances our understanding of the brain mechanisms controlling appetite and metabolism, offering prospects for new therapeutic applications.

According to the researchers, these findings could also shed light on the use of semaglutide for other conditions, such as substance use disorders.

This breakthrough, published in Cell Metabolism, marks an important step toward safer and more effective obesity therapies.

How does semaglutide act on the brain?

Semaglutide belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist family, molecules that mimic the action of a natural hormone involved in blood sugar and appetite regulation. By binding to these receptors in the brain, the drug sends satiety signals, thereby reducing food intake.

GLP-1 receptors are particularly concentrated in brain areas like the hypothalamus and brainstem, which play a central role in energy and metabolism control. Semaglutide activates these regions, modulating neural circuits that influence hunger and energy expenditure.

This targeted action explains why semaglutide is effective for inducing weight loss. However, its broad activation can also cause side effects, highlighting the importance of better understanding the precise mechanisms involved to refine its therapeutic use.

What is the dorsal vagal complex?

The dorsal vagal complex is a structure located in the brainstem, playing a crucial role in regulating autonomic functions like digestion and satiety. It integrates information from the digestive system and relays it to the brain to adjust eating behaviors.

This region contains neurons sensitive to hormones like GLP-1, making it a preferred target for obesity treatments. Its involvement in semaglutide's effects underscores its importance in the central control of appetite.

The dorsal vagal complex is also involved in other processes, such as nausea responses. Understanding its function opens prospects for developing drugs that can separate beneficial effects from adverse ones, as demonstrated in this study.