GLP-1R Agonist Effects in the Brain: Exploring Semaglutide and Neuroinflammation, AD/PD™ Session Spotlight

In this episode, we explore Plenary Lecture 2 from the AD/PD™ 2025 International Conference: “GLP-1R Agonist Effects in Brain.”

Moderated by Dr. Cynthia Lemere (USA) and Dr. Henrietta Nielsen (Sweden), this featured lecture was presented by Dr. Lotte Bjerre Knudsen (Denmark), Chief Scientific Advisor at Novo Nordisk. A pioneering force in GLP-1 drug development and co-inventor of liraglutide, Dr. Knudsen shared novel data on semaglutide’s potential neuroprotective mechanisms, as the drug advances through Phase 3 trials (EVOKE & EVOKE+) for Alzheimer’s disease.

Key highlights include:

• GLP-1’s dual role as a hormone and neurotransmitter with CNS effects
• Evidence that semaglutide dampens hippocampal inflammation and supports microglial homeostasis
• Insights into how GLP-1R agonists may stabilize plaques and modulate APOE-related pathways
• Potential applications for GLP-1 drugs beyond metabolic disorders, including AD and neurodegeneration
• How cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits seen in obesity and diabetes may translate to brain health

This episode is especially relevant for neurologists, neuroscientists, translational researchers, pharmaceutical professionals, and anyone interested in repurposing metabolic therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.

This podcast was created using AI to provide a quick and insightful summary of an AD/PD™ 2025 session. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, listeners are encouraged to refer to original conference materials and recordings for detailed information.

The AD/PD™ 2025 International Conference on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases and related neurological disorders, took place on April 1-5, 2025, in Vienna Austria.

https://adpd.kenes.com/