Bimagrumab, a drug currently under investigation, is showing promise in preventing muscle and bone loss associated with the use of GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy. Researchers, led by Frederik Duch Bromer at Aarhus University in Denmark, are exploring bimagrumab's ability to inhibit the activation of the activin receptor, a key pathway involved in muscle degradation. This drug is under scrutiny for its potential to address the pressing issue of muscle deterioration caused by rapid weight loss from these popular weight management medications.
The study conducted by Bromer and his team involved testing on mice, both healthy and immobilized, over a 21-day period. Mice received two weekly injections of the antibody bimagrumab, while control groups were administered an injection of the vehicle. The researchers assessed the muscles and bones from the right hindlimb after euthanizing the mice at the end of the study period. Findings indicated that bimagrumab could promote new bone formation, notably at the end of the thigh bone or femur, without affecting blood cell formation or related factors.
"While our study focused on a model of muscle and bone loss, it did not specifically examine bone loss related to obesity. Since weight loss drugs are mainly used by people with obesity, it is essential to explore how bimagrumab interacts with bone affected by obesity," noted Frederik Duch Bromer.
Weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound have gained popularity for their effectiveness in reducing weight. However, they often bring about an undesirable side effect: simultaneous loss of muscle mass and bone density. This is where bimagrumab steps in as a potential solution. By binding to activin receptors and inhibiting their signaling pathways, bimagrumab may help preserve muscle and bone mass during weight loss.
The significance of this discovery extends beyond mere preservation. Bimagrumab's ability to interact with bones affected by obesity adds another dimension to its potential benefits. Bromer emphasized the importance of understanding this interaction due to the widespread use of weight loss drugs among people with obesity.
"Since the rise of incretin therapies like Wegovy and Mounjaro, scientists have been searching for ways to counteract the loss of muscle and bone mass often accompanying rapid weight loss. Our research shows that bimagrumab can mitigate even more severe muscle and bone loss than what typically occurs with weight loss therapies," Bromer stated.
Bimagrumab's safety profile also makes it a favorable candidate for further exploration. During the study, researchers evaluated the impact of bimagrumab on blood cell formation at intervals of two and seven days after injecting the antibody. Results showed no adverse effects, reinforcing its potential as a safe option for patients using GLP-1 drugs.
The clinical trial investigating bimagrumab aims to evaluate its effectiveness in preventing muscle loss in individuals utilizing Wegovy. The trial's results could pave the way for new treatments that better support individuals undergoing significant weight loss without compromising their muscle or bone health.
"As bimagrumab is now being repurposed to help preserve lean mass during weight loss, its ability to protect bone as well is especially relevant given the large number of people using these treatments," added Bromer.
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