Research Progress on the Association Between GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Cardiomyopathy

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are a promising new class of drugs, whose clinical potential has recently been explored. Various preclinical studies and clinical trials initially demonstrated the efficacy of GLP-1RAs in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, long-term clinical practice has revealed that GLP-1RAs also exhibit significant efficacy and preventive effects in cardiovascular diseases. These effects are mediated through multiple gene pathways; thus, these drugs have shown substantial potential for further development in different clinical contexts. Cardiomyopathy, which constitutes a significant proportion of cardiovascular-related diseases, is increasingly prevalent, with its incidence rising annually. Thus, following the recent surge in research on cardiomyopathy, this review aims to summarize the latest findings regarding the association between GLP-1RAs and cardiomyopathy. This review begins with an introduction to GLP-1RAs, discussing their specific mechanisms of action. This article then addresses the pathogenesis, progression, and mechanisms of cardiomyopathy. Subsequently, a detailed analysis of the relationship between GLP-1RAs and cardiomyopathy is conducted. Finally, this review summarizes and discusses the latest literature on the impact of GLP-1RAs on the risk of various types of cardiomyopathy, as well as the potential underlying biological mechanisms, to provide clinical guidance on the use of GLP-1RAs in the treatment of cardiomyopathy.