Trpti OEA: Influencing Weight Management through the Gut Microbiome

Nutraceuticals World (NW): What is oleoylethanolamide (OEA) and what is its biological function?

Dr. Daniele Piomelli, University of California, Chair in Neurosciences and Distinguished Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Pharmacology, and Biological Chemistry: Oleoylethanolamide (OEA) is a bioactive lipid mediator that is normally present in the human body, where it plays key roles in the regulation of energy homeostasis. It contributes to weight management by promoting satiety, enhancing lipolysis in adipose tissue, and increasing fatty acid oxidation in hepatic and muscular tissues. Additionally, OEA exhibits anti-inflammatory effects within the gastrointestinal tract, which may further support metabolic health and body weight regulation. Its mechanism of action involves the activation of two receptors deeply involved in metabolic control: PPAR-a and GPR-119. PPAR-a promotes satiety, lipolysis, and fatty acid oxidation, while GPR-119 stimulates GLP-1 secretion, which further reduces appetite and controls post-meal blood sugar. 

NW: How does OEA impact the gut microbiome, and how does this relate to healthy weight management?

Piomelli: OEA modulates the gut microenvironment by altering microbial community composition, attenuating intestinal immune activation, and reinforcing epithelial barrier integrity. These effects collectively foster a gut milieu conducive to metabolic health. Preclinical studies in murine models demonstrate that OEA decreases the relative abundance of Lactobacillus species while increasing Bacteroidetes, a microbial shift commonly associated with high-fiber diets and lean metabolic phenotypes. 

NW: What is unique about Gencor’s ingredient Trpti, and what does the research show?

Piomelli: Orally administered OEA is subject to rapid enzymatic degradation within the gastrointestinal tract, limiting its systemic bioavailability. Trpti is a proprietary formulation designed to protect OEA from such degradation, thereby enhancing its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Clinical studies have shown that Trpti upregulates a variety of beneficial bacteria — for example, Akkermansia and Bacteroidetes — which can improve gut function and overall metabolic and immune health. 

NW: Who might benefit from supplementation with Trpti, and how does Trpti fit into the weight management landscape compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists?

Piomelli: When combined with a healthy diet, Trpti can potentiate and accelerate weight management outcomes by suppressing hunger and reducing inter-meal cravings, while optimizing fat utilization through enhanced lipolysis and energy expenditure. This profile positions Trpti as an effective adjunct for individuals aiming to lose weight or maintain metabolic health.

In contrast to GLP-1 receptor agonists, which primarily exert effects by delaying gastric emptying and modulating glycemic control, Trpti acts via endogenous signaling pathways that enhance satiety and fat metabolism — via PPAR-a and GPR-119 activation — without dependence on hormone analogs or injectable administration. Its oral bioavailability and favorable safety profile facilitate seamless integration into lifestyle interventions, thereby augmenting the efficacy of diet and exercise regimens.