In a Perspective, Daniel Drucker highlights the growing body of evidence that hints at the potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)-based medications in treating conditions other than diabetes and obesity, including cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders. GLP-1 is a hormone released from the gut after eating that enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion.
Pharmacological GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) activation reduces glucagon secretion and slows gastric emptying, making it an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes. Later studies found that GLP-1 administration also inhibited food intake through GLP-1R activation in the brain, leading to their use in treating obesity. Recently, research has demonstrated that GLP-1 drugs produce additional health benefits beyond glucose and weight control, including reduced heart and kidney diseases. Here, Drucker discusses the potential mechanisms underlying these benefits, such as reducing systemic inflammation, and their implications for future clinical applications and drug development.
