The GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) in the kidney is expressed exclusively in vascular smooth muscle cells in arteries and arterioles. Downstream effects of the activation of the renal vascular GLP-1R are elusive but may involve regulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). The expression ofin the mouse renal vasculature was investigated by in situ hybridization after a single subcutaneous dose of liraglutide, semaglutide and after repeated injections of liraglutide. Single and repeated exposure to GLP-1R agonists induced expression ofin the renal vascular smooth muscle cell compartment compared with vehicle injected controls ( < .0001) for both semaglutide and liraglutide. The present data show a robust induction ofexpression in the vascular smooth muscle cells of the kidney after single and repeated GLP-1R activation and this renin recruitment may be involved in the effects of GLP-1R agonist treatment on kidney disease.
Authors
Bjørnholm, Katrine Dahl; Ougaard, Maria Elm; Skovsted, Gry Freja; Knudsen, Lotte Bjerre; Pyke, Charles