Abstract: SA-PO1160
Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Kidney Function: Meta-Analysis of Laboratory Biomarkers
Session Information
- CKD: SGLT2 Inhibitors and GLP-1 RAs for Kidney Health
November 08, 2025 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: CKD (Non-Dialysis)
- 2302 CKD (Non-Dialysis): Clinical, Outcomes, and Trials
Authors
- Vangara, Avinash, Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, New York, United States
- Kore, Shruti, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, United States
- Gill, Sumeet, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, United States
- Chugh, Savneek S., Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, New York, United States
Background
GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are well-established therapies for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and show potential renal therapeutic benefits based on new research findings. While large outcome trials show that kidney composite endpoints decrease with GLP-1 RAs, the effects of GLP-1 RAs on laboratory markers of kidney function remain less clearly quantified in pooled analysis.
Methods
The systematic literature search through PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL produced 15 studies, 10 of which were randomized controlled trials and 5 observational cohorts that monitored changes in UACR and/or eGFR after GLP-1 RA therapy. The DerSimonian–Laird method was used to perform random-effects meta-analyses. All continuous outcomes were combined by calculating mean differences or percentage changes, while variance estimates were obtained from reported or imputed standard deviations. Heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic.
Results
Across over 65,000 participants, GLP-1 RA therapy was associated with a significant reduction in UACR of –37.9% (95% CI: –53.2 to –22.5), indicating a consistent decrease in albuminuria across study types. The short-term eGFR analyses indicated a modest average decrease of –2.7 mL/min/1.73m2, which aligns with established early hemodynamic effects. Longer-term trials showed reduced progression of chronic eGFR decline, which suggests GLP-1 RAs might offer renoprotective benefits over extended periods. The analysis revealed moderate heterogeneity, while no significant publication bias was found.
Conclusion
GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduce albuminuria and may contribute to the preservation of kidney function by slowing long-term eGFR decline. These findings support the role of GLP-1 RAs as integral components of renal risk reduction strategies in patients with type 2 diabetes and early-stage chronic kidney disease.