Direct or Indirect Action? Mechanisms of the Antiatherosclerotic Effects of Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1 Receptor Agonists

May 14, 2026Cardiovascular therapeutics

How Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists May Reduce Artery Plaque: Direct or Indirect Actions?

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Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) may reduce major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with and without Type 2 diabetes.

  • GLP-1 RAs are associated with improvements in lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and blood pressure.
  • Direct vascular actions of GLP-1 RAs may include anti-inflammatory effects and suppression of oxidative stress.
  • These agents could improve endothelial function and modulate the behavior of immune cells in the vasculature.
  • GLP-1 RAs may inhibit the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells.
  • The mechanisms underlying these effects are mostly derived from preclinical or animal studies, indicating a need for further research in humans.

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