Genetic evidence for repurposing of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists to prevent chronic liver diseases

We read with great interest the study of Wester et al1 that suggested a potential hepatoprotective effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in mitigating the risk of major adverse liver outcomes among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Currently, several studies indicate that GLP-1RAs provide functional protection for chronic liver diseases.2 3 However, uncertainties persist regarding the beneficial effect of GLP-1RAs on chronic liver disease-related outcomes, such as fibrosis progression, primarily due to the limited follow-up time4 and the presence of potential confounding factors (eg, synergistic effects of GLP-1RA on weight).5 Therefore, we sought to investigate the effects of GLP-1RAs on liver outcomes by using drug target Mendelian randomisation (MR).6 Meanwhile, we aim to elucidate whether and to what degree the protective effect of GLP-1RAs was mediated by T2D control and weight loss. Genetic instrumental variables...

Source: Gut - April 5, 2024 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Liu, B., Peng, G., Yin, Y., Shen, C., Yin, X., Cai, Z., Zhang, B. Tags: Gut PostScript Source Type: research