Nowadays there are numerous new diseases that result from the continued evolution of virus and bacteria. It is hoped that the rapidly advancing technology can help scientists in developing new innovations in medicine. A recent study conducted by University of Chicago indicates that gene therapy can be used as an alternative method to manage and even cure diabetes and obesity.

In this research, the scientists studied glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) gene, which is responsible for signalling pancreas to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that transforms glucose into energy that can be distributed to other parts of our body. GLP1 can also help to prolong the feeling of fullness, thus decreasing a person’s appetite.

Using a tool called CRISPR, a genome "editing" technology, the scientists modified GLP1 in order to extend the hormone's half-life in the blood stream, and fused it to an antibody fragment. This results in longer circulation of GLP1 in the blood stream. They also found a way to generate more GLP1 by exposing it to the antibiotic doxycycline. Increased GLP1 equals to increased insulin, which in turn causes a lower glucose level in blood. Next, they inserted the gene into skin cells and grew those cells into culture.

The research was conducted on two groups of mice. The first group of mice was transplanted with the skin graft, while the second group was not. Both groups were fed with high fat diet alongside varying doses of doxycycline. Although both gained weight, the first group showed less weight gain compared to the second group. It is also proven that expression of GLP1 lowered glucose levels and reduced insulin resistance.

To conclude, modified GLP1 indeed has the potential to cure and prevent obesity. Scientists hope that this study can used as a base for further research. It is hoped that gene therapy will be an effective alternative method to cure diseases in the future.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Shutterstock

Source(s):

• Yue, J., Gou, X., Li, Y., et al (2017). Engineered epiderm progenitor cells can correct diet-induced obesity and diabetes. Cell Stem Cell 21(2) : 256-263.