Searching the Crystal Ball for Tailored GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Treatment in Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity

Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2025 Jan;41(1):e70017. doi: 10.1002/dmrr.70017.

Abstract

Background: Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (RA) are novel agents used in the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. Although highly effective, the response to treatment may vary significantly among patients.

Objective: This perspective review aims to summarise the current knowledge about markers of poor or good response to GLP-1 RA, highlighting the possibility of tailoring treatment strategies and reducing costs associated with T2D and obesity treatment.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, NCBI, and Scopus databases, focussing on studies published between 2016 and 2024 that evaluated factors influencing treatment outcomes with GLP-1 RA.

Results: Several markers, including baseline HbA1c levels, ghrelin and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) levels, specific gut microbiome composition, b-cell function, and genetic markers, were identified as factors associated with treatment response.

Conclusion: Understanding predictive markers of response to therapy can enhance precision-based medicine for the selection of patients eligible for GLP-1 RA, improving clinical outcomes and optimising diabetes management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / drug therapy
  • Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists*
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Obesity* / drug therapy
  • Precision Medicine

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Biomarkers
  • GLP1R protein, human
  • Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists