Obesity, a global health crisis associated with increased risks of various diseases, lacks an effective medication for its treatment.
A recent study from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals a potential breakthrough in addressing severe obesity and related health issues.
Researchers have repurposed a drug initially developed to treat Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and sickle cell disease, demonstrating its ability to reduce obesity, fatty liver, and improve heart function.
This study builds upon previous research by the same team, which identified the PDE9 enzyme’s role in heart disease caused by high blood pressure.
The Role of PDE9
PDE9, an enzyme closely related to another protein called PDE5, plays a crucial role in regulating cyclic GMP (cGMP) levels in the body.
Drugs like Viagra target PDE5 to control cGMP. In this study, scientists explored whether inhibiting PDE9 could ameliorate common conditions such as high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, high cholesterol, triglycerides, and excess body fat, particularly abdominal obesity.
Experimental PDE9 Inhibitors
While PDE9 inhibitors are still considered experimental, several pharmaceutical companies have developed and tested them in clinical trials for conditions like Alzheimer’s and sickle cell disease.
The study employed a PDE9 inhibitor (PF-04447943) initially evaluated for Alzheimer’s disease but later discontinued for this purpose.
Clinical trials involving more than 100 individuals have shown that this experimental drug is well-tolerated with no serious adverse effects. Another PDE9 inhibitor is currently under investigation for potential use in heart failure treatment.
Obesity and Its Prevalence
Obesity remains a significant public health concern, affecting more than 40% of the U.S. population. This condition elevates the risk of various diseases and health complications.
Notably, obesity is prevalent among American women over the age of 60, with approximately 43% falling into this category, even after menopause.
The study’s findings, observed in mice, suggest that PDE9 inhibition could offer a potential solution for severe obesity and its associated health issues.
If these results can be translated to humans, individuals may be able to achieve substantial weight loss, around 50 pounds for someone weighing 250 pounds, without requiring changes to their diet or exercise habits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the repurposing of a drug initially developed for Alzheimer’s disease shows promise in addressing severe obesity, fatty liver, and heart disease.
The experimental PDE9 inhibitor has demonstrated safety in human clinical trials, making it a potential candidate for future treatments targeting obesity and related health conditions.
While further research is needed to validate these findings in humans, this study represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of effective treatments for obesity and its associated health risks.
If you care about Alzheimer’s disease, please read studies about Scientists find a new way to treat Alzheimer’s disease and findings of Fluctuating cholesterol and triglyceride levels are linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
For more information about heart health, please see recent studies that apple juice could benefit your heart health, and results showing yogurt may help lower the death risks in heart disease.
Copyright © 2023 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
