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GLP-1 receptor agonists-another promising therapy for Alport syndrome?
Jan Boeckhaus1, Holly Mabillard2,3, John A Sayer2,4,5
1Nephrology and Rheumatology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
Abstract:
Alport syndrome (AS) is a progressive monogenic glomerular kidney disease characterised by kidney function decline, hearing loss, and ocular abnormalities, often leading to early-onset kidney failure (KF). While current therapies, such as renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi), offer some benefits, many patients still experience KF at a young age, highlighting the need for additional treatment options. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have emerged as promising agents with demonstrated cardiovascular and nephroprotective effects in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Evidence from several major clinical trials has shown that GLP-1 RAs can reduce cardiovascular events and slow CKD progression by reducing albuminuria. Their potential mechanisms of action include anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and antioxidative effects, making them particularly relevant for the treatment of AS, where inflammation and fibrosis play crucial roles in disease progression. This review explores the therapeutic potential of GLP-1 RAs in AS, summarising pre-clinical and clinical data and elucidating the pathways through which GLP-1 RAs might offer renoprotective benefits. We advocate for further research into their application in AS and recommend the inclusion of AS patients in future clinical trials to better understand their impact on disease progression and patient outcomes.
Insights
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists show promise for Alport syndrome, a kidney disease. Further research is needed to explore their renoprotective effects and potential to slow kidney failure in patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Alport syndrome (AS) is a progressive genetic kidney disease leading to kidney failure.
- Current treatments offer limited protection, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the therapeutic potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in Alport syndrome.
- To explore the mechanisms underlying the renoprotective effects of GLP-1 RAs.
Main Methods:
- Review of pre-clinical and clinical data on GLP-1 RAs in kidney disease.
- Analysis of potential mechanisms of action, including anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects.
Main Results:
- GLP-1 RAs demonstrate cardiovascular and nephroprotective effects in type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
- Evidence suggests GLP-1 RAs reduce albuminuria and slow kidney disease progression.
Conclusions:
- GLP-1 RAs hold significant therapeutic potential for Alport syndrome.
- Further clinical trials are warranted to evaluate GLP-1 RAs in AS patients for improved outcomes.
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