PT31 - BEYOND GLYCEMIC CONTROL: UNCOVERING THE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY POWER OF GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS IN OBESITY
PT31
BEYOND GLYCEMIC CONTROL: UNCOVERING THE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY POWER OF GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS IN OBESITY
A. Szulc1,*, E. Bryl1
1Department of Physiopathology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
Rationale: Obesity is a condition marked by chronic low-grade inflammation, driven by dysfunctional adipose tissue that alters cytokine profiles and activates the immune system. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), commonly used in obesity and type 2 diabetes treatment, are being studied for their potential anti-inflammatory effects, with evidence suggesting their impact on inflammatory biomarkers in individuals with obesity.
Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar. Search terms included “GLP-1 receptor agonists,” “obesity,” “inflammation,” and “cytokines.” Eligible studies included both clinical and preclinical research that reported on changes in biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and adipokines. Studies were selected based on methodological rigor, sample characteristics and the intervention duration.
Results: Treatment with GLP-1 RAs, including liraglutide and semaglutide, was associated with decreased levels of CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α. These changes were often observed independently of weight loss, suggesting direct anti-inflammatory properties. Mechanisms involve inhibition of Nuclear Factor-Kappa B (NF-κB) signaling, reduced macrophage infiltration in adipose tissue and shifts in adipokine secretion (e.g. ↑adiponectin, ↓leptin). Findings varied based on baseline metabolic status and treatment duration.
Conclusion: GLP-1 RAs may improve immune-metabolic balance in obesity by modulating systemic inflammation. Further long-term studies are needed to establish their potential role in managing inflammation-related comorbidities.
References: BRAY, Jonathan JH, et al. Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists improve biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 2021, 23.8: 1806-1822.
Disclosure of Interest: None declared