Research
Hormonal
GLP-1 receptor agonists reduce foam cell formation and promote anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization, thereby stabilizing atherosclerotic plaques.
GLP-1 drugs help stabilize existing plaque in arteries by changing how immune cells (macrophages) behave. They encourage these cells to become 'anti-inflammatory' (M2 phenotype) and help remove excess cholesterol, which reduces the risk of plaque rupture and heart attack.
ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
Liraglutide has been identified as a potential solution for promoting cholesterol excretion in macrophages by up-regulating ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1)... effectively reducing foam cell formation (105)... GLP-1R activation promotes macrophages polarization towards the M2 phenotype, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and role in tissue repair (110).
Why this rating
The evidence is primarily from preclinical studies (mouse models, cell cultures).
Source
Anti-atherosclerotic effect of incretin receptor agonists
Xin Wang et al. · Frontiers in Endocrinology · 2024
DOI 10.3389/fendo.2024.1463547
narrative_reviewCited 9×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
More from this paper
- Incretin receptor agonists (IRAs), including GLP-1RAs and dual GIP/GLP-1RAs, reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and improve lipid profiles and blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes.Good
- GLP-1 receptor agonists protect endothelial function by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammation, and promoting nitric oxide (NO) production.Moderate
Related findings · Hormonal
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