Glucagon-like peptide-1 drugs and muscle health: possible role in preventing and treating muscle loss

GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) may lead to significant weight loss, but a notable proportion of this loss could come from lean body mass.

• Concerns exist that weight loss from GLP-1RA treatment may be associated with loss of skeletal muscle, which is a risk for those prone to sarcopenia.
• Preclinical evidence indicates that GLP-1RAs may influence skeletal muscle through mechanisms that reduce inflammation, combat oxidative stress, and support mitochondrial health.
• Key signaling pathways affected by GLP-1RAs include those involved in muscle growth and metabolism, such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR and AMP-activated protein kinase.
• In models of aging and chronic disease, GLP-1RAs have demonstrated potential properties to preserve muscle mass.
• The relationship between fat loss and preservation of lean mass in clinical settings remains unclear, necessitating further research.

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