Incretin Hormones GLP-1 and GIP Normalize Energy Utilization and Reduce Inflammation in the Brain in Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease: From Repurposed GLP-1 Receptor Agonists to Novel Dual GLP-1/GIP Receptor Agonists as Potential Disease-Modifying Therapies

Sep 12, 2025CNS drugs

Incretin Hormones GLP-1 and GIP Improve Brain Energy Use and Lower Inflammation in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases, Supporting New Treatments Targeting Both Hormones

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Abstract

GLP-1 and may improve energy utilization and reduce inflammation in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD).

  • Reduced glucose uptake and impaired energy utilization in neurons are observed in AD and PD.
  • Insulin and growth factor signaling is downregulated early in these neurodegenerative disorders.
  • Despite compensatory mechanisms like increased ketone and amino acid utilization, neuronal energy generation declines over time.
  • Chronic inflammation in the brain contributes to neuronal damage and cell death.
  • GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists have demonstrated neuroprotective effects in animal studies and clinical trials.
  • Early-phase clinical trials show improvements in key parameters for patients with AD and PD when treated with .

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Key numbers

29%
Improvement in Cognitive Function
29% improvement in AD Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog) test scores.
204
Participants in Phase II Liraglutide Trial
204 participants received liraglutide or placebo in a phase II trial.
2
Phase III Trials for Semaglutide
Two phase III trials testing semaglutide in patients with AD are underway.

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