Peptides

Review highlights antimicrobial peptides as cross-seeding modulators at the neurodegenerative–infectious interface

Molecular grappling hooks improve cancer drug targeting and effectiveness

Trends in metabolic bariatric surgery utilization in the era of GLP-1s, 2022-2024

Survival and recurrence with GLP-1 receptor agonists in breast cancer

A cohort study found a potential association between GLP-1 RA use and improved survival rates among obese breast cancer patients with related metabolic conditions. Further evaluation of GLP-1 RA therapy in randomized clinical trials is warranted based on these findings.

New USF study tests whether AI can reliably predict immune responses

Researchers at USF Health developed a framework to test AI tools' accuracy in predicting immune responses, aiming to enhance cancer immunotherapies and vaccine development. The study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of current AI approaches, providing guidance for building safe and reliable AI tools for healthcare.

UIC scientists source anti-cancer treatment in bacteria

Researchers at UIC developed an anti-cancer therapy using a bacterial protein called aurB, which prevents energy production in tumor cells' mitochondria. The treatment was tested in combination with radiation and showed highly effective results in animal models of prostate cancer, effectively shutting down tumor growth.

University of Cincinnati enrolls first patients in clinical trial for prosthetic joint infections

A new clinical trial at the University of Cincinnati is testing a peptide solution to treat prosthetic joint infections after total knee replacement. The trial aims to reduce the need for repeat surgeries and expand the treatment window beyond two weeks.

GLP-1 receptor agonists and noncardiometabolic outcomes

A meta-analysis of GLP-1 receptor agonist studies found potential safety signals for gastrointestinal side effects, while some evidence suggested a link to reduced respiratory disease risk. Further research is needed to confirm the latter association.

Mirror fragments intercept Alzheimer’s-causing protein

Researchers from Kobe University have designed a small mirror protein that disables amyloid-beta, a causal factor of Alzheimer's disease. The approach uses the principle of 'chirality' to bind to the protein, inhibiting its aggregation and potential for brain cell damage.

Biomarker, functional status, and quality-of-life trajectories before modes of death in heart failure

A post hoc analysis of the Finerenone Trial reveals that sudden death in heart failure was often preceded by modest worsening of symptoms and declining quality of life. The study suggests limited specificity for sudden death among other modes of death, implying a complex trajectory before modes of death.

Cardiorenal outcomes with tirzepatide compared with dulaglutide in patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease

A post hoc analysis found that tirzepatide was associated with a lower incidence of a broad composite cardiovascular and kidney endpoint. The study compared tirzepatide with dulaglutide in patients with diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.

Holding vs continuing GLP-1/GIP agonists before upper endoscopy

Continuing GLP-1/GIP agonists before upper endoscopy increased clinically significant residual gastric volume, but did not elevate adverse event risk. Clear liquids the day prior to the procedure may mitigate this risk.

GLP-1 receptor agonist use and survival among patients with type 2 diabetes and brain metastases

Patients with type 2 diabetes and brain metastases who used GLP-1 receptor agonists showed a significant reduction in all-cause mortality. The use of these medications was associated with reduced neuroinflammation, preservation of the blood-brain barrier, and lowered oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.

GLP-1RA switching and treatment persistence in adults without diabetes

A large cohort study found that fewer than 1 in 4 adults with overweight or obesity without diabetes remained on GLP-1RA treatment after 12 months. Treatment switching between GLP-1RA agents was common, reflecting active therapy management and the emergence of new formulations and weight management agents.

Digital microsteps as scalable adjuncts for adults using GLP-1 receptor agonists

A low-cost digital intervention increased expectation to adopt health behaviors among adults using GLP-1RAs, with effects persisting for 2 weeks. The written microsteps intervention plus short video boosters may play a role in promoting sustained behavior change.

Novel plant-based approach to a better, cheaper GLP-1 delivery system

A novel plant-based approach uses lettuce chloroplasts to produce functional GLP-1 peptides, paving the way for more affordable and better-tolerated oral medications. This method bypasses hurdles such as manufacturing cost, delivery system, and side effects associated with conventional approaches.

Heterogeneity of treatment effects of GLP-1 RAs for weight loss in adults

A systematic review and meta-analysis found GLP-1 RAs produce significant weight loss across various subpopulations, including women who show improved outcomes compared to men. These findings have implications for clinical decision-making.

A novel technology to explore peptides as drug targets with high precision without using cells

Researchers developed a novel method to immobilize proteins onto magnetic microbeads, allowing precise measurement of binding strength and efficient selection of target peptides. The technique achieved a 10,000-fold concentration in a single sorting step, significantly enhancing the efficiency of drug discovery research.

Emerging class of antibiotics to tackle global tuberculosis crisis

A team of scientists at the University of Sydney has discovered how three naturally occurring antibiotic compounds disrupt the ClpC1–ClpP1P2 complex, a vital protein degradation machine in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This finding uncovers surprising complexity and provides valuable insight into designing more effective anti-TB treatments.

Common anti-seizure drug prevents Alzheimer’s plaques from forming

Researchers discovered that levetiracetam prevents the production of toxic amyloid-beta 42 peptides and plaques in neurons. Administering the drug to high-risk individuals may slow cognitive decline and prevent Alzheimer's symptoms if started early, possibly up to 20 years before symptoms appear.

GLP-1 receptor agonists plus progestins and endometrial cancer risk in nonmalignant uterine diseases

A cohort study found combined GLP-1RA and progestin therapy reduces endometrial cancer risk in women with benign uterine pathology or endometrial hyperplasia. The study suggests potential benefits of this treatment approach for nonmalignant uterine diseases.

GLP-1 RAs and prior major adverse limb events in patients with diabetes

Treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) significantly lowers risks of limb events, cardiovascular events, all-cause mortality, and kidney disease progression compared to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in patients with diabetes. GLP-1 RAs are preferred for secondary prevention in this high-risk population.

Consumer food purchases after glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist initiation

After initiating GLP-1 receptor agonists, consumers showed a decrease in ultraprocessed foods and an increase in protein, while purchasing fewer calories, sugars, and saturated fats. These modest changes may have significant population-level effects given increasing GLP-1RA use.

Kumamoto University advances the realization of oral insulin using novel peptide technology

A research team at Kumamoto University has developed a breakthrough drug-delivery platform using a small-intestine-permeable cyclic peptide, enabling efficient oral delivery of insulin. This approach achieves a pharmacological bioavailability of approximately 33–41% relative to subcutaneous injection.

SGLT2 inhibitors vs GLP-1 receptor agonists for kidney outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes

A comparative effectiveness study found that SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a lower risk of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists. These findings suggest that SGLT2 inhibitor treatment may be an effective strategy for preventing kidney disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

New mass spec innovation could transform research

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have developed a new technique to improve mass spectrometry, enabling better drug target discovery and tumor analysis. The innovation increases sensitivity by breaking down scans into smaller bins, allowing for more accurate measurement of differences in concentration.

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist use and vertebral fracture risk in type 2 diabetes

Using GLP-1 receptor agonists may lower the risk of vertebral compression fractures and related surgical interventions in people with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that these medications have a bone-protective effect, offering benefits for patients.

Semaglutide and early-stage metabolic abnormalities in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders

A randomized clinical trial shows that semaglutide improves glycemic control and weight outcomes in individuals with schizophrenia. The study suggests using glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists as an early intervention strategy to reduce cardiometabolic risk in this population.

Increasing postpartum use of GLP-1 receptor agonists

The study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists are increasingly used for postpartum weight loss in overweight women without a documented diabetes diagnosis. The primary indication for use was weight reduction, suggesting a potential shift in treatment guidelines.

Gestational weight gain and pregnancy outcomes after GLP-1 receptor agonist discontinuation

A study found that women with obesity who stopped using GLP-1 receptor agonists experienced more gestational weight gain and a higher risk of preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and hypertensive disorders. The research suggests that discontinuation of these medications may impact pregnancy outcomes.

Cardiometabolic parameter change by weight regain on tirzepatide withdrawal in adults with obesity

Withdrawal of tirzepatide after 36-week treatment led to 25% or greater weight regain in most participants within a year, reversing initial cardiometabolic parameter improvements. Continued obesity treatment is crucial for sustained benefits.

Stick and Glue! Researchers at IOCB Prague introduce a new biomolecule-labeling method for more precise observation of cellular processes

A team of researchers from IOCB Prague introduces a novel method for labeling molecules with fluorescent dyes, surpassing existing approaches in precision and stability. This enables scientists to track labeled molecules over long periods with high reliability, expanding possibilities for research in biology, chemistry, and medicine.

Antimicrobial peptides can reduce salmonella in chickens

Researchers identified two antimicrobial peptides that can kill various types of Salmonella and reduce its load in chickens. The study's findings suggest these peptides could improve food safety and public health by mitigating antibiotic resistance.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and age-related macular degeneration

A cohort study found that GLP-1 receptor agonist use was associated with a reduced risk of developing nonexudative AMD, but not progression to exudative AMD in individuals with nonexudative AMD. This study may inform future randomized trials evaluating the ocular effects of GLP-1RAs in nondiabetic populations.

Utah chemists discover enzyme that could help build next-generation GLP-1 drugs

Researchers have discovered an enzyme called PapB that can create tight rings in therapeutic peptides, enabling the creation of stronger, longer-lasting versions of GLP-1 medications. This enzymatic method offers a simpler alternative to traditional chemical methods and could improve the stability and effectiveness of these drugs.

Learning the language of lasso peptides to improve peptide engineering

A new large language model, LassoESM, has been developed to predict lasso peptide properties, enabling the acceleration of rational design for biomedical applications. The model was trained on thousands of lasso peptide sequences and demonstrated accurate prediction of various properties.

GLP-1RA order fills and out-of-pocket costs by race, ethnicity, and indication

A cohort study found that 40% of GLP-1RA orders were not filled, with lower rates among Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic patients. These disparities may be attributed to differences in insurance coverage, GLP-1RA use, or cost thresholds.

Peptide study paves path toward new weapon against antibiotic-resistant bacteria

The study reveals why some peptides are more effective and why certain bacterial cells are more vulnerable to membrane disruption. The findings provide a mathematical equation to identify optimal properties for efficacy, opening the door to designing novel compounds against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

New study reveals why nature picked today’s proteins

A new study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggests that the stability of alpha amino acid backbones led to their selection as the foundation for proteins. The research proposes an assembly-driven model for the origins of life, offering fresh insight into how chemistry shaped biology.

Medicare Part D coverage and costs for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists

Prior authorization for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) became near universal, leading to substantial out-of-pocket costs. Out-of-pocket costs for GLP-1RAs rose significantly from 2020 to 2025, affecting many high-cost drugs.

Discontinuation of semaglutide among older adults with diabetes in the US and Japan

A binational study found nearly 6 in 10 US adults and 3 in 10 Japanese adults discontinued semaglutide within 12 months of treatment. Patients with established cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease had higher discontinuation rates, highlighting the need for alternative treatments.

Obesity treatment with bariatric surgery vs GLP-1 receptor agonists

Metabolic bariatric surgery shows promise as a cost-effective weight loss option for class II and III obesity patients. The study found bariatric surgery resulted in greater weight loss compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Efficacy and safety of GLP-1 RAs in children and adolescents with obesity or type 2 diabetes

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 trials found GLP-1 RAs significantly improved glycemic and weight outcomes in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes or obesity. However, gastrointestinal adverse effects warrant attention in long-term management.

Artificial protein mimicking elastin aids tissue regeneration

Researchers developed a novel biomaterial called elastin domain-derived protein (EDDP) that overcomes natural elastin limitations. EDDP promotes cell adhesion and growth, aiding tissue regeneration in damaged tissues like heart valves, blood vessels, or torn ligaments.

Your genes could prune your gut bugs and protect you from disease

Researchers found genetic peptides called alpha-defensins that shape gut bacteria, producing healthier microbiomes and reducing insulin resistance. This discovery suggests personalized treatments can be tailored to individual genes, offering new hope for addressing chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes.

GLP-1 RAs and cardiovascular and kidney outcomes by body mass index in type 2 diabetes

A cohort study found GLP-1 RAs offer body mass index-dependent cardiovascular benefits and consistent kidney protection for type 2 diabetes patients. The study suggests BMI stratification is crucial for guiding treatment decisions.

Penn engineers unveil generative AI model that designs new antibiotics

Researchers at Penn Engineering introduced AMP-Diffusion, a generative AI tool that designed tens of thousands of new antimicrobial peptides with bacteria-killing potential. The most potent AMPs performed as well as FDA-approved drugs without detectable adverse effects.

Origin of life breakthrough: Chemists show how RNA might have started to make proteins on early Earth

Researchers at UCL successfully chemically linked amino acids to RNA under conditions that could have occurred on early Earth, a significant step towards understanding the origin of protein synthesis. The study demonstrates how RNA might have first come to control protein synthesis.

GLP-1 receptor agonists and cancer risk in adults with obesity

A retrospective cohort study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists may reduce overall cancer risk, including lower risks of endometrial and ovarian cancers, among patients with obesity or overweight. However, these medications may also increase the risk of kidney cancer, highlighting the need for longer-term follow-up.

Bee and frog proteins: nature’s double defense against farm superbugs

Researchers have discovered that combining antimicrobial peptides from bees and frogs can prevent bacteria from mutating quickly, making them a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics. This finding could lead to safer disease control in livestock and agricultural settings.

GLP-1 receptor agonists and sight-threatening ophthalmic complications in patients with type 2 diabetes

Cohort study finds GLP-1 receptor agonist use associated with modestly increased risk of incident diabetic retinopathy; however, those with preexisting DR experience fewer sight-threatening complications. Regular screening and monitoring recommended for all T2D patients on GLP-1 RAs.

GLP-1 RAs and risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in older patients with diabetes

A study found that semaglutide and liraglutide use are associated with a higher risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in older patients with type 2 diabetes. The GLP-1 receptor agonists showed varying levels of risk, with liraglutide posing the greatest threat.

BATMAN brings TCR therapy out of the shadows

Researchers developed a new AI model named BATMAN to improve T cell receptor therapy accuracy. The AI uses a vast database of over 22,000 TCR-peptide interactions to predict peptide binding and identify potential cancer treatments.

On-demand recording and key takeaway available: Insilico introduces generative AI platform enhancements across drug discovery stages in Pharma.ai summer updates webinar

The Insilico Medicine recent summer updates webinar introduced new features and functional updates to the company's generative AI platform, including Generative Biologics, Chemistry42, PandaOmics, DORA, and PreciousGPT. These updates aim to accelerate drug discovery and advance life sciences research.

Not just a messenger: Developing nano-sized delivery agents that also provide therapeutic treatment

Researchers at the University of Ottawa have made a breakthrough in developing nanoparticles that not only deliver drugs but also contribute to treatment. Their proof-of-concept study shows that particles can be armed with therapeutic potential, revolutionizing the field of nanomedicine.

GLP-1 RA use and survival among older adults with cancer and type 2 diabetes

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) treatment was associated with reduced all-cause mortality among older patients with cancer and type 2 diabetes. The survival benefit persisted across various subgroups, including age, sex, and cancer type.

Bacteria from cows show promising results in treating MRSA infections

Researchers mapped the frequencies used by Staphylococcus bacteria to communicate, identifying a signal from another species as potent against MRSA. This alternative technique weakens bacterial ability to coordinate attacks on hosts without killing them.

Neurodegeneration and stroke after GLP-1RAs in diabetes and obesity

A cohort study found that GLP-1RAs like semaglutide and tirzepatide lower risk of dementia, stroke, and all-cause mortality in adults with type 2 diabetes and obesity. The findings suggest potential neuroprotective benefits beyond glycemic control.

Integrating diet and physical activity when prescribing GLP-1s—lifestyle factors remain crucial

The article provides practical strategies for managing symptoms in patients receiving GLP-1 RAs, focusing on diet and physical activity interventions to support muscle and nutrient preservation. Lifestyle factors remain crucial in GLP-1 RA treatment for effective weight management.

GLP-1 receptor agonists in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

A new study found significant reductions in medication use, symptoms, and procedural interventions with GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy for idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.