In 2024, the introduction of Semaglutide ignited a new wave of enthusiasm for weight loss solutions. This period marked a significant pivot in the industry’s focus toward GLP-1-based treatments.

While drugs like Semaglutide have demonstrated robust efficacy in managing both weight and blood sugar levels, they are also associated with a range of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

As a result, there has been a growing need to develop complementary nutritional products that can harness the benefits of GLP-1 activation while reducing adverse effects. Addressing these challenges represents an urgent market opportunity, paving the way for synergistic formulations that balance therapeutic outcomes with enhanced tolerability.

BONERGE’s Solution: Akkermansia & Dihydroberberine

At BONERGE, our research and development teams have focused on formulating a synergistic blend that supports GLP-1 secretion and function. Our innovative solution comprises two key ingredients:

Akkermansia: The GLP-1 Secretion Booster

Akkermansia muciniphila is a naturally occurring bacterium in the human gut, renowned for its critical role in maintaining intestinal wall health. Research has shown that Akkermansia can secrete an 84kDa P9 protein, which binds directly to ICAM-2 in the gut via a calcium-dependent mechanism, thereby inducing GLP-1 secretion. In simple terms, Akkermansia acts as a “GLP-1 secretion assistant” within the gut. The released GLP-1, in turn, promotes insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, suppresses glucagon secretion, and stabilizes blood sugar levels.

Moreover, Akkermansia has been demonstrated to slow gastric emptying and reduce appetite through central pathways, thus contributing to effective weight management in a manner that is often more gentle compared to conventional medications [1].

BONERGE’s AM06™ Akkermansia

Our proprietary strain, AM06™, is exclusively isolated from healthy breast milk, setting it apart from other commercial Akkermansia strains that are typically derived from fecal samples. This unique source ensures that AM06™ not only retains the beneficial properties of traditional Akkermansia but also exhibits lower toxicity, enhanced genetic stability, and superior resistance to high pH and bile salts.

Furthermore, using our PROFORCARE® Heat-InActived technology, we inactivate the AM06™ strain at lower temperatures. This process fully inactivates the bacteria while maintaining the structural integrity of the cell, preserving its active components and ensuring its resilience in the complex environment of the gastrointestinal tract.

Dihydroberberine: Multifunctional Synergy for an Innovative GLP-1 Formula

Dihydroberberine, the reduced form of berberine, offers improved bioavailability and heightened bioactivity over its precursor. Once absorbed, dihydroberberine is rapidly converted into berberine, which is a well-known GLP-1 agonist. Its mechanisms include upregulating glucagon mRNA expression and stimulating the proliferation of intestinal L-cells, leading to enhanced GLP-1 secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, berberine activates the bitter taste receptor TAS2R38 in the gut, further stimulating GLP-1 release [2].

Beyond its GLP-1 stimulating properties, dihydroberberine plays a crucial role in overcoming insulin resistance—a common challenge in weight management. By improving insulin sensitivity, it enables GLP-1 to more effectively regulate blood sugar levels. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help mitigate inflammation-related side effects that are sometimes associated with conventional weight management medications such as Semaglutide [3].

BONERGE’s ihydroberberine

To address the practical challenges associated with conventional dihydroberberine formulations—such as moisture sensitivity, degradation, and low bulk density—we have developed a unique crystalline form of dihydroberberine under the GlucoSober™ brand. This new crystal form boasts a bulk density exceeding 0.6 g/ml and excellent flowability, thereby significantly reducing manufacturing challenges during processes like capsule filling.

The crystalline dihydroberberine is highly stable, resistant to moisture, and does not degrade, ensuring consistent performance. During industry events and exhibitions, many of our partners have expressed keen interest in the synergistic action between dihydroberberine and GLP-1, noting that this combination could pave the way for innovative product solutions in the weight management market.

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of weight management calls for solutions that not only target metabolic functions but also address the limitations of current pharmacological treatments.

By integrating AM06™ Akkermansia and GlucoSober™ Dihydroberberine into our GLP-1 weight management formula, BONERGE is at the forefront of this innovative approach. Our solution leverages the natural mechanisms of the gut microbiome and the advanced bioactivity of dihydroberberine to provide a more balanced and effective strategy for managing weight and regulating blood sugar levels.

We are excited about the potential of this formulation to redefine the standard of care in weight management and welcome further discussions with industry peers and stakeholders.

References:

[1]Huifang Niu1,Minfeng Zhou, et al. Molecular Mechanism of Pasteurized Akkermansia muciniphila in Alleviating Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms. J Agric Food Chem. 2024 Jun 12;72(23):13083-13098.

[2] Yang WL, Zhang CY, et al. Berberine Metabolites Stimulate GLP-1 Secretion by Alleviating Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction.Am J Chin Med. 2024;52(1):253-274.

[3] Li C, Dong N, Wu B, et al. Dihydroberberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, exhibits protective effect against dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in mice. Phytomedicine. 2021 Sep;90:153631.