Why Your Brain Thinks You're Full (Even When You're Not)
Summary
Hosts Michael Stevens and Hannah Fry explore the science behind GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. They trace the discovery from stomach ulcer surgeries and Gila monster venom to modern synthetic peptides that regulate blood sugar and suppress appetite. The episode also discusses how these drugs reduce "food noise" and potential future applications in treating addiction and Alzheimer's, accelerated by AI protein folding.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Blood sugar levels and the body's narrow balance
Sponsors: Cancer Research UK, Tremphaya, and Sally
How insulin and glucagon regulate blood glucose
The incretin effect: Why gut signals matter for insulin
Discovery of GLP-1 and its role in diabetes treatment
The problem with GLP-1: Rapid breakdown by DPP4
Exendin-4: The Gila monster venom breakthrough
Engineering Semaglutide for longer-lasting effects
Sponsors: Cancer Research UK, Wise, and Carvana
GLP-1 mechanisms: Satiety, stomach emptying, and brain signals
Food industry tactics vs. GLP-1 induced fullness
Beyond food: Impact on addiction and dementia trials
AlphaFold AI and the future of protein-based medicine
Conclusion and sponsor: The Devil Wears Prada 2
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