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[Preprint]. 2026 Sep 3:2026.08.30.748142. [Version 1] doi: 10.64898/2026.08.30.748142

Biased signaling via NtsR1 restrains food intake and weight gain in obese mice

Jariel Ramírez-Virella, Katherine Black, Netanya F Dennis, Raluca Bugescu, Katie Thompson, Steven H Olson, Lauren M Slosky, Zoe A McElligott, Gina M Leinninger
PMCID: PMC13684580  PMID: 42922571

ABSTRACT

Neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1) activation suppresses feeding and promotes weight loss but is limited by adverse effects associated with Gq signaling. SBI-553 is a β-arrestin-biased allosteric modulator of NTSR1 that avoids these effects. We evaluated the effects of SBI-553 (5 or 12 mg/kg, i.p.) on food intake and body weight in lean and diet-induced obese mice. Neither dose altered metabolic parameters, locomotor activity, or wheel running. SBI-553 did not affect ad libitum feeding in lean mice; however, both doses acutely reduced high-fat diet intake in obese mice. While 5 mg/kg had no effect on hunger-induced feeding, 12 mg/kg suppressed refeeding in both chow- and high-fat-fed mice of both sexes and reduced weight regain in obese mice. These findings identify SBI-553 as a potential strategy for reducing food intake and supporting weight loss.

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