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Effects of Semaglutide on Muscle Structure and Function in the SLIM LIVER Study
Grace L Ditzenberger1, Jordan E Lake2, Douglas W Kitch3
1Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
Summary
Semaglutide use in people with HIV and MASLD led to decreased muscle volume but maintained physical function. This suggests muscle function can be preserved despite weight loss-associated muscle changes.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) research
- Pharmacological interventions
Background:
- Semaglutide is effective for weight reduction.
- Weight loss often leads to concomitant muscle mass reduction, potentially impacting physical function.
- Understanding these effects in specific populations like people with HIV (PWH) is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of semaglutide on muscle volume and physical function in people with HIV (PWH) and MASLD.
- To assess changes in psoas muscle volume, fat fraction, and physical performance metrics.
- To determine if semaglutide treatment affects muscle function despite muscle volume loss.
Main Methods:
- Secondary analysis of the SLIM LIVER study (ACTG A5371) involving PWH with MASLD.
- Participants received subcutaneous semaglutide for 24 weeks, titrated to 1 mg/week.
- Muscle psoas volume and fat fraction were assessed via MRI; physical function was measured by 10-time chair rise and 4m gait speed tests.
Main Results:
- Psoas muscle volume decreased by 9.3% (P < .001) over 24 weeks.
- Psoas muscle fat fraction showed no significant change (P = .16).
- Chair rise time and gait speed demonstrated nonsignificant improvements, with a significant decrease in the prevalence of slow gait speed (63% to 46%, P = .029).
Conclusions:
- Semaglutide treatment in PWH with MASLD resulted in decreased psoas muscle volume.
- Despite muscle volume reduction, physical function (chair rise, gait speed) was maintained.
- These findings suggest that semaglutide may preserve physical function in PWH with MASLD even with associated muscle loss.
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