Molecular Medicine Reports · Oct 30, 2026

Role of glucagon‑like peptide‑1 receptor in cancer: Mechanisms and pharmacologic intervention (Review)

By Jing F, Zeng Y, Yu QL et al.

The glucagon‑like peptide‑1 (GLP‑1) receptor, a G‑protein‑coupled receptor distributed in multiple tissues, can regulate the homeostasis of blood glucose and lipids. GLP‑1 receptor agonist (GLP‑1RA) has been recognized as an effective hypoglycemic drug. The disruption of metabolic processes in diabetes may lead to dysregulation of numerous signaling pathways, thereby promoting the development of malignant tumors. Therefore, the activity of the GLP‑1 receptor may contribute to the development of cancer. Over the years, advancements have been made in understanding the inhibitory effect of GLP‑1RAs on tumorigenesis. Activation of the GLP‑1 receptor can inhibit tumorigenesis by reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, modulating the tumor immune microenvironment and enhancing the chemosensitivity. In addition, GLP‑1RAs also regulate the activity of several related signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis (such as the AMPK, PI3K/Akt and cAMP/PKA pathways). In the present review, a comprehensive review of the distribution of GLP‑1 receptors and the pharmacological effects of GLP‑1RAs is provided. The intrinsic relationship between GLP‑1 receptors and cancer risk is also discussed, as well as the mechanisms of GLP‑1RAs in inhibiting cancer, with the aim to provide valuable insights for the treatment of cancer using GLP‑1RAs.

doi.org/10.3892/mmr.2026.14054Open accessPubMed 42960434Interventions