Pathology, research and practiceApr 25, 2025

The important role of GLP-1 signals in Parkinson's disease and diabetes

GLP-1 Therapies Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Jan 20, 2026

Abstract

GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) may improve the management of diabetes and Parkinson's disease.

GLP-1 is involved in regulating insulin secretion, delaying gastric emptying, and promoting feelings of fullness.
The short lifespan and limited ability of GLP-1 to cross the blood-brain barrier restrict its use in clinical settings.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have been developed to extend the action of GLP-1, proving effective for diabetes treatment.
Recent studies indicate that GLP-1 has neuroprotective properties, which could be beneficial for neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease.
GLP-1RAs may help reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, enhancing protection for neurons.
Novel drug delivery methods, such as nanoparticle carriers and molecular modifications, are being explored to improve the effectiveness of GLP-1RAs in the nervous system.

Simplified

This review assesses the roles of GLP-1 and its receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in the treatment of diabetes and Parkinson's disease, integrating current theories and research. GLP-1, a vital endogenous hormone, regulates insulin secretion, delays gastric emptying, and promotes satiety, showing significant potential for diabetes management. However, its brief lifespan and restricted blood-brain barrier penetration limit its clinical application. To overcome these constraints, researchers have developed GLP-1 receptor agonists that prolong its action and exhibit high efficacy in diabetes treatment. Recent studies further reveal GLP-1's neuroprotective effects, notably its potential in managing neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease. GLP-1RAs mitigate neuroinflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance neuroprotection, suggesting substantial potential for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, to enhance GLP-1RAs' efficacy in the nervous system, researchers have introduced novel drug delivery approaches, including nanoparticle carriers and molecular modifications, to improve stability and targeting accuracy. In conclusion, this review comprehensively analyzes the mechanisms, clinical applications, and challenges of GLP-1 and its receptor agonists in managing diabetes and Parkinson's disease, while identifying future research and clinical opportunities.

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Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

PubMed

The important role of GLP-1 signals in Parkinson's disease and diabetes

Abstract

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Competing interests

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