Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive multisystemic disease accompanied by vascular dysfunction and a tremendous\r\nincrease in cardiovascular mortality. Numerous adipose-tissue-derived factors and beta cell dysfunction contribute to the increased\r\ncardiovascular risk in patients with T2DM. Nowadays, numerous pharmacological interventions are available to lower blood\r\nglucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Beside more or less comparable glucose lowering efficacy, some of them have shown\r\nlimited or probably even unfavorable effects on the cardiovascular system and overall mortality. Recently, incretin-based therapies\r\n(GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP-IV inhibitors) have been introduced in the treatment of T2DM. Beside the effects of GLP-1 on\r\ninsulin secretion, glucagon secretion, and gastrointestinal motility, recent studies suggested a couple of direct cardiovascular effects\r\nof GLP-1-based therapies. The goal of this paper is to provide an overview about the current knowledge of direct GLP-1 effects on\r\nendothelial and vascular function and potential consequences on the cardiovascular outcome in patients with T2DM treated with\r\nGLP-1 receptor agonists or DPP-IV inhibitors.
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