An international team of researchers, led by the University of Copenhagen, has discovered a bacterium capable of influencing metabolism and promoting weight loss. The findings were published in the journal Nature Microbiology.

The bacterium produces two proteins—RORDEP1 and RORDEP2—which share properties with the hormone irisin. Irisin is produced by muscles during physical activity and plays a key role in regulating fat metabolism, according to Planet Today. These signaling proteins affect the body’s hormonal balance, influencing appetite, blood sugar levels, bone density, and fat metabolism.

The researchers explained that their experiments revealed up to a 100,000-fold variation in the concentration of RORDEP-producing bacteria among different individuals. Those with higher levels of these bacteria typically have a lower body mass index (BMI).

Experiments on rodents showed that introducing the bacteria or the RORDEP proteins led to weight loss, reduced blood glucose levels, and improved bone tissue condition. Additionally, these proteins were found to boost the production of hormones responsible for regulating appetite and blood sugar, while simultaneously suppressing the production of GIP—a hormone associated with weight gain.

Clinical trials on humans are now underway. The research team hopes that the bacteria or synthetic RORDEP proteins will form the basis for a new generation of broad-spectrum biological treatments.