Targeting Metabolic Dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease: The Role of GLP-1 Agonists in Body Weight Regulation and Neuroprotection.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

This review explores the role of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in addressing metabolic dysfunction and neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD), focusing on body weight regulation and neuroprotection.

Recent findings

GLP-1 RAs modulate insulin signaling, reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, and improve mitochondrial functional mechanisms linked to neuroprotection. Clinical trials show modest but sustained improvements in motor symptoms and suggest benefits in cognition, mood, and apathy. While GLP-1 RAs induce weight loss in diabetes, their metabolic impact in normoglycaemic PD patients appears limited. However, individuals with obesity or insulin resistance may experience enhanced clinical and cognitive outcomes. GLP-1 RAs offer a mult

SUBMITTER: Aviles-Olmos I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12474678 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature