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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2026.02.26.708119

15-PGDH Inhibition Overcomes Muscle Regenerative Deficit Seen With GLP1-Receptor Agonist-Induced Weight Loss

Nalbandian, M.·Lone, J.·Le Moal, E.·Kim, I.·Li, Y. K.·Kraft, P.·Zhao, M.·Zhang, Z.·Svensson, K. J.·Blau, H. M.
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Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), including long-acting semaglutide, are revolutionary anti-obesity therapies. However, emerging evidence indicates that weight loss may come at the expense of skeletal muscle mass, a tissue essential for mobility, metabolic regulation, and overall health. Here, we show that an inhibitor of the gerozyme 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDHi), which boosts PGE2 levels, increases skeletal muscle mass, strength, and regeneration in the presence of semaglutide. We find that in a high fat diet-induced mouse model of obesity, semaglutide alone induces significant loss of muscle mass, while retaining contractile function. However, muscle regeneration and recovery of strength post-injury are hindered by semaglutide. This regenerative deficit is due to impeded stem cell function, which is overcome if mice are treated with a combination of PGDHi and semaglutide. Our data show that GLP-1-mediated weight loss interferes with this key muscle-building function, which PGDHi co-treatment counteracts to promote proper muscle regeneration and restored strength.

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Nalbandian, M., Lone, J., Le Moal, E., Kim, I., Li, Y. K., Kraft, P., Zhao, M., Zhang, Z., Svensson, K. J., Blau, H. M.. 2026-02-28. 15-PGDH Inhibition Overcomes Muscle Regenerative Deficit Seen With GLP1-Receptor Agonist-Induced Weight Loss. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.02.26.708119

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