Glucagon-like peptide-1: a multi-faceted anti-inflammatory agent

Abstract

Inflammation contributes to many chronic conditions. It is often associated with circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune cells. GLP-1 levels correlate with disease severity. They are often elevated and can serve as markers of inflammation. Previous studies have shown that oxytocin, hCG, ghrelin, alpha-MSH and ACTH have receptor-mediated anti-inflammatory properties that can rescue cells from damage and death. These peptides have been studied well in the past century. In contrast, GLP-1 and its anti-inflammatory properties have been recognized only recently. GLP-1 has been proven to be a useful adjuvant therapy in type-2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and hyperglycemia. It also lowers HbA1C and protects cells of the cardiovascular and nervous systems by reducing inflammation and apoptosis. In this review we have explored the link between GLP-1, inflammation, and sepsis.

Molecular mechanisms of semaglutide and liraglutide as a therapeutic option for obesity

“…Obesity has been associated with chronic inflammation, and GLP-1RA can modulate these inflammatory processes ( 27 ). GLP-1R is present in macrophages, lymphocytes, and monocytes which regulate immune cell signaling by suppressing proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β ( 28 ).…”

The Role of Peptides in Asthma–Obesity Phenotype

“…The early research has demonstrated that the level of plasma GLP-1 after oral carbohydrate ingestion is considerably decreased in obese patients in comparison to a lean group [ 194 ]. GLP-1, in addition to participating in glycemic control, has anti-inflammatory properties under many different conditions [ 195 ]. Given the fact that GLP-1R receptors are present in the respiratory tract, including airway smooth muscle cells, pulmonary vasculature, or type-II alveolar cells [ 193 ], GLP-1 may play an important role in the inflammatory processes associated with asthma.…”

Transforming Diabetes Care: The Molecular Pathways through Which GLP1-RAs Impact the Kidneys in Diabetic Kidney Disease

“…The interaction between the immune system and DKD has become increasingly evident, with kidney biopsies revealing accumulations of immune cells, notably macrophages and T-cells, and elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, MCP-1/CCL2, IL-6, IL-1β), orchestrated by NF-κβ [ 86 ]. This inflammatory cascade, fueled by high glucose levels and AGEs, activates pattern recognition receptors, leading to chronic inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, culminating in fibrosis and end-stage kidney disease [ 86 ]. GLP-1RAs have emerged as a significant counterforce, mimicking the effects of endogenous GLP-1 by activating GLP-1 receptors, which leads to a reduction in proinflammatory responses and direct beneficial impacts on kidney and vascular tissues.…”