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Transforming Diabetes Care: The Molecular Pathways through Which GLP1-RAs Impact the Kidneys in Diabetic Kidney
Merita Rroji1, Goce Spasovski2
1Department of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine Tirana, 1001 Tirana, Albania.
Abstract:
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a substantial complication of type 2 diabetes (T2D), presenting challenges in chronic kidney disease (CKD) management. In addition to traditional and recent therapies, including angiotensin, converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, the evolution of antihyperglycemic treatments has introduced a promising agent, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) for the management of DKD. GLP-1RAs enhance insulin release and reduce glucagon release, offering a novel approach to DKD management. This review analyzes the molecular pathways through which GLP1-RAs confer renal protection in T2D and DKD, which are complex and multifaceted. They include modulation of renal hemodynamics, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory actions, metabolic regulation, and direct cellular effects. These mechanisms highlight GLP1-RA's potential as a therapeutic option for glycemic control and direct or indirect renal function protection in diabetic patients, emphasizing the potentiality of GLP-1RAs for dual therapy, with cardiovascular and renal protection as a holistic approach. Clinical evidence supports GLP-1RAs in reducing albuminuria and enhancing kidney outcomes, highlighting their value in a comprehensive DKD management strategy.
Insights
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) offer a promising new approach for managing diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in type 2 diabetes patients. These agents provide renal protection through multiple pathways, improving kidney outcomes and reducing albuminuria.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major complication of type 2 diabetes (T2D).
- Current DKD management involves ACE inhibitors, ARBs, SGLT2 inhibitors, and MRAs.
- Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) represent an emerging antihyperglycemic therapy for DKD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular mechanisms of renal protection offered by GLP-1RAs in T2D and DKD.
- To highlight the potential of GLP-1RAs as a therapeutic option for glycemic control and kidney protection.
- To emphasize the dual cardiovascular and renal protective benefits of GLP-1RAs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on GLP-1RAs and kidney protection in diabetic patients.
- Analysis of molecular pathways involved in GLP-1RA-mediated renal effects.
- Evaluation of clinical evidence supporting GLP-1RA use in DKD.
Main Results:
- GLP-1RAs exert renal protection via modulation of renal hemodynamics, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory actions, metabolic regulation, and direct cellular effects.
- GLP-1RAs enhance insulin and reduce glucagon release, contributing to glycemic control.
- Clinical studies show GLP-1RAs reduce albuminuria and improve kidney outcomes.
Conclusions:
- GLP-1RAs present a multifaceted approach to managing DKD in T2D.
- These agents offer potential for dual cardiovascular and renal protection.
- GLP-1RAs are a valuable addition to comprehensive DKD management strategies.
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