Trends in molecular medicineDec 24, 2025

Using GLP-1 drugs and multiple biomarkers to study brain degeneration

GLP-1 Therapies Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Jun 27, 2026

Abstract

Essence

GLP-1 receptor agonists may have neuroprotective potential in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease if validated biomarkers can guide their use.

Evidence

This review synthesizes mechanistic, preclinical, and clinical evidence for agents such as exenatide, lixisenatide, and liraglutide and outlines blood-based, molecular, digital, and AI-supported biomarkers for selection and monitoring.

Caveat

The abstract states that translation is hindered by the absence of validated biomarkers for patient selection, target engagement, and progression monitoring.

Simplified

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs), widely used for type 2 diabetes mellitus, are emerging as promising neuroprotective therapies in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Agents such as exenatide, lixisenatide, and liraglutide have demonstrated disease-modifying potential in preclinical and clinical studies. However, translation remains hindered by the absence of validated biomarkers to guide patient selection, track target engagement, and monitor progression. Here, we review the mechanistic links between GLP1-RA signaling and neurodegeneration, summarize the evolving clinical evidence, and highlight emerging blood-based and molecular biomarkers, including those tied to insulin signaling, neurodegeneration, and metabolic and cardiovascular dysfunction, that may accelerate therapeutic development. Integrating these biomarkers with digital phenotyping and artificial intelligence could enable precision approaches to advance GLP1-RA research and clinical use in neurodegeneration.