Semaglutide mitigates the loss of fat-free mass and decreased energy expenditure observed after diet restriction. Insights from an obese minipig model

American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism 2026 Open access

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Authors: Simon K. Bredum, Julie Mie Jacobsen, Jens Frey Halling, Ida Blom, Christopher T. A. Lewis, Julien Ochala, Merete Fredholm, Sofia Lundh, Malte Schmücker, Brice Ozenne, Ana Isabel Domingos, Bjørn Olav Hald
+3 more Steen Larsen, Susanna Cirera, Berit Østergaard Christoffersen
DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00480.2024
Cited by: 1
References: 53

Abstract

Specific energy-conserving mechanisms and metabolic adaptation challenge weight loss efficiency and maintenance, and promote weight regain after diet restriction. Less is known about these mechanisms after pharmacologically induced weight loss. For the first time in a minipig model of obesity, the research demonstrated how GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) treatment, compared with a weight-matched diet-restricted group, positively influenced body composition, energy expenditure, mitochondrial thermogenesis, and myosin ATPase activity. These novel mechanisms of energy expenditure may have potential as future drug targets.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Adipose Tissue and Metabolism Diabetes Treatment and Management Regulation of Appetite and Obesity

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism
Publisher
American Physiological Society
Volume
330
Issue
4
Pages
E401–E410
Publication date
11 February 2026
Language
EN