GLP-1 and cardioprotection: from bench to bedside

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Endocrinology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Myocardial infarction (MI) triggers cardiomyocyte death via ischemia-reperfusion injury, impacting mortality and heart remodeling.
• Mechanisms include oxygen deprivation, nutrient loss, oxidative stress, calcium overload, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
• Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a therapeutic agent for type 2 diabetes, known for pleiotropic effects, including cytoprotection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review experimental and clinical studies on GLP-1-induced cardioprotection.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms and intracellular pathways of GLP-1's protective effects in the myocardium.
• To analyze GLP-1's therapeutic potential in ischemic heart disease and heart failure.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of experimental and clinical studies.
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways.
• Evaluation of GLP-1's role in myocardial protection.

Main Results:

• GLP-1 demonstrates significant cardioprotective effects in various models of cardiac injury.
• Key pathways involved include modulation of apoptosis, anti-inflammatory effects, and improved mitochondrial function.
• GLP-1 receptor activation is crucial for mediating these beneficial actions.

Conclusions:

• GLP-1 exhibits potent cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury.
• GLP-1 represents a promising therapeutic target for managing myocardial infarction and related heart conditions.
• Further clinical investigation is warranted to optimize GLP-1-based therapies for cardiovascular diseases.