Recent clinical and preclinical studies reveal progress in therapies targeting obesity and metabolic disorders. Rhythm Pharmaceuticals reported positive Phase II results for bivamelagon, an oral melanocortin-4 receptor agonist, demonstrating significant BMI reductions in a rare hypothalamic obesity indication. This development supports upcoming discussions with regulatory authorities about Phase III trials. Additionally, new research characterizes the cellular and molecular changes in human adipose tissue following weight loss surgery, including reduction of damaged cells and improvements in fat metabolism. Another study showed that cysteine depletion in mice activates fat-burning pathways, suggesting novel metabolic therapy targets. Together, these advances deepen understanding of obesity pathophysiology and inform potential treatment strategies.