Researchers at the Salk Institute for Biological Sciences have made a significant discovery regarding muscle health and weight loss. They identified the protein BCL6 as a critical factor in maintaining muscle mass, particularly relevant for users of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. These drugs are popular for weight management, yet many users express concerns about potential muscle loss during their weight reduction efforts.
The study indicates that BCL6 exists in high concentrations within muscle cells, suggesting its vital role in regulating both muscle health and strength. Hunter (Hui) Wang, PhD, the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of BCL6, stating, “In simple terms, we found BCL6 helps muscles stay strong by coordinating growth and nutrient signals.”
The implications of this research extend to various groups, including individuals facing muscle loss due to aging, cancer cachexia, and obesity treatments. Ronald Evans, PhD, a prominent researcher involved in the study, highlighted the potential of BCL6 as a therapeutic target. He noted, “This study highlights BCL6 as a potential therapeutic target for muscle loss due to aging, cancer cachexia, obesity and complications from its treatment (e.g., GLP-1 receptor agonists), which opened doors for many patients experiencing muscle wasting.”
Concerns about muscle loss during weight loss are increasingly prevalent among healthcare professionals. Mir Ali, MD, a general surgeon and bariatric specialist, voiced his apprehensions by stating, “Preserving muscle mass when trying to lose fat is very important. Not only is muscle necessary for normal function, having more muscle mass increases energy expenditure and helps keep weight off.” He also mentioned that further research on enhancing the expression of muscle-building chemicals could provide additional strategies to help individuals lose weight while preserving muscle.
Mark A. Anton, MD, FACS, medical director at Slimz Weightloss, expressed similar insights. He remarked, “This study highlights the intricate relationship between muscle mass regulation and nutritional states, potentially offering new insights into muscle preservation strategies during weight loss.”
The researchers conducted an extensive analysis of human tissue samples to ascertain the specific role of BCL6 in muscle health. Their findings reinforce the notion that GLP-1 medications can inadvertently lead to muscle loss during weight reduction efforts. This revelation underscores the need for further investigation into maintaining muscle integrity for patients using these treatments.
Evans also pointed out that “the transcriptional repressor BCL6 is required to maintain muscle mass and strength by regulating muscle gene expression, especially during changes in nutritional status.”
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