Beihang University Engineers Gut Bacteria That Release GLP-1 at Mealtimes, Outperforming Constant Release in Obese Mice
Researchers at Beihang University in Beijing reported in Genome Medicine on October 24, 2026 genetically engineered probiotic bacteria that produce GLP-1 in response to diet, compared with bacteria that release it constantly, in a mouse model of obesity. Mealtime-triggered delivery reduced fat accumulation and fatty liver more than constant delivery. Constant delivery enriched gut bacteria carrying genes for GLP-1-degrading enzymes, which the team also found in clinical samples, while diet-triggered delivery kept those bacteria low; the therapy has been tested only in mice.