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New facets of the multiorgan effectiveness of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors

https://doi.org/10.62751/2713-0177-2025-6-3-11

Abstract

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are a relatively new class of sugar-lowering drugs characterized by a favorable safety profile and  a neutral effect on body weight. They are characterized by low incidence of side effects and good tolerability, even in patients with endstage chronic kidney disease. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that these drugs have a wide range of pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular and central nervous systems, and other organs. One key mechanism explaining the cardioprotective properties of DPP-4 inhibitors is their anti-inflammatory effect. The use of these drugs has been associated with decreased systemic markers of inflammation such as C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines, potentially reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and its complications. In addition, DPP-4 inhibitors improve endothelial function by increasing the bioavailability of nitric oxide and reducing the adhesion of leukocytes to the vascular wall, which contributes to vasodilation and reduces the likelihood of vascular complications. This review provides basic information about DPP-4 inhibitors, examines the clinical prospects for its use, and substantiates the benefits of combination therapy as well as the main pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular system and brain.

About the Authors

T. Yu. Demidova
Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
Russian Federation

Tatyana Yu. Demidova – D. Sci. (Med.), Prof., Head of the Department of endocrinology, Institute of Clinical Medicine

Moscow



M. Ya. Izmailova
Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
Russian Federation

Maryam Ya. Izmailova – assistant at the Department of endocrinology, Institute of Clinical Medicine

Moscow



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Review

For citations:


Demidova T.Yu., Izmailova M.Ya. New facets of the multiorgan effectiveness of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors. FOCUS. Endocrinology. 2025;6(3):47-58. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.62751/2713-0177-2025-6-3-11

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ISSN 2713-0177 (Print)
ISSN 2713-0185 (Online)