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The emerging role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in treating or preventing cancer

David J Benjamin1, Daniel D Von Hoff2

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Hoag Family Cancer Institute, Newport Beach, CA 92663, USA.

Cancer Drug Resistance (Alhambra, Calif.)
|February 11, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists show promise for cancer prevention and treatment. Research indicates these agents may decrease obesity-related cancer incidence and overcome chemotherapy resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Rising rates of obesity-related cancers necessitate novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are emerging as potential agents in oncology.
  • Existing data suggest a link between GLP-1 receptor agonist use and reduced cancer incidence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the potential role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in cancer prevention and treatment.
  • To review evidence for the antitumor activity of GLP-1 receptor agonists.
  • To assess the potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists in overcoming chemotherapy resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Review of population-based data on cancer incidence in GLP-1 receptor agonist users.
  • Analysis of in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrating antitumor effects.
  • Examination of pre-clinical data on overcoming chemotherapy resistance.

Main Results:

  • Population studies indicate a decreased incidence of obesity-related cancers among GLP-1 receptor agonist users.
  • In vitro and in vivo studies confirm independent antitumor activity of GLP-1 receptor agonists.
  • Pre-clinical evidence suggests GLP-1 receptor agonists can overcome resistance in chemotherapy-refractory cancer cells.

Conclusions:

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists present a promising therapeutic avenue for obesity-related malignancies.
  • Further randomized controlled trials are warranted to elucidate the role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in cancer prevention and treatment.
  • These agents may offer a novel strategy to enhance the efficacy of cancer therapy.
Keywords:
GLP-1 receptor agonistcancerpreventionresistance

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