In the cardiovascular system, GLP-1 can reduce cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury through the activation of specific signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/Akt pathway.437,438 This involves modulating the cell apoptosis process, for example, by decreasing the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in cardiomyocytes, reducing cytochrome C release, and caspase activation.438,439 GLP-1 can also enhance endothelial function by promoting the production of NO, possibly through activating eNOS, thereby affecting vasodilation, anti-inflammatory actions, and anti-atherosclerosis.43,192,440,441. This evidence concerns the gene GCG and atherosclerosis.