New delivery method improves GLP-1 treatment efficacy

Researchers have developed a new method for delivering glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are used for treating diabetes and aiding weight loss. This method involves "painting" these drugs onto antibodies in the body, making it potentially easier and cheaper for patients to access this treatment. Currently, shortages and high prices limit the use of GLP-1 drugs. The new delivery system attaches the peptide directly to the antibodies they target. In tests with mice, this method allowed for effective blood sugar control and weight loss with only a quarter of the usual drug dosage. Bradley Pentelute, a professor at MIT, presented these findings at a conference in San Diego. He explained that peptide-based therapies are often weakened by enzymes in the body, but fusing GLP-1 to immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies can help. However, traditional methods of modifying antibodies in a lab are expensive. The novel method, called in vivo antibody painting, uses a peptide that binds to IgGs and carries the GLP-1 drug. Tests showed that nearly half of the antibodies successfully bonded with the GLP-1 at normal body temperature. In mouse models of type 2 diabetes, the new approach resulted in better blood sugar management and weight loss lasting up to 15 days from a single treatment. Pentelute's team has shared their findings in a preprint article currently under review. They are exploring applications for cancer treatments and the possibility of combining multiple drugs onto one antibody. This technology could lower costs and improve the effectiveness of peptide-based therapies. A provisional patent has been filed for this approach, and Pentelute is actively involved in the development of protein and peptide therapeutics through various companies.