Epigenetic research suggests fat cells retain memory of obesity

New epigenetic research suggests that fat cells may retain a “biological memory” of an obese state, which could explain why many individuals regain weight after dieting or discontinuing weight-loss medications.

Studies involving mice indicate that a chemical mechanism involving the hormone asprosin can trigger DNA expressions that create this cellular memory. This finding may provide insight into why the effects of GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and tirzepatide, often diminish once use stops. Research published in JAMA noted that 83 percent of tirzepatide users regained 25 percent or more of their initial weight loss within a year of stopping the drug.

Researchers, including Seth Field of Case Western Reserve University, suggest that understanding this molecular memory could lead to new treatments designed to prevent weight regain by altering the chemical makeup of cells. However, experts emphasize that this is not yet a final solution and requires further investigation to determine how these mechanisms affect humans.