Earlier this month, ILSI Europe convened a scientific workshop titled “Shaping Metabolic Health: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists, Prebiotics and the Gut–Brain Axis”, bringing together leading experts from academia, clinical research and industry. Over the course of one and a half days, participants explored emerging evidence and interdisciplinary perspectives at the intersection of pharmacology, nutrition and microbiome science.
The workshop addressed the evolving role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in metabolic health. Discussions highlighted that, while these therapies have demonstrated effectiveness in weight management, their broader implications for metabolic regulation, appetite control and long-term health outcomes are gaining increasing attention.
A key area of focus was the potential of prebiotics as a complementary nutritional strategy. Experts examined how fermentation processes and gut-derived metabolites may influence endogenous GLP-1 signalling, underlining the relevance of dietary approaches alongside pharmacological interventions.
The central role of the gut microbiome and the gut–brain axis in regulating appetite, food intake and metabolic function was also emphasised. Participants reviewed current evidence and identified important knowledge gaps, particularly regarding inter-individual variability in response to both dietary and pharmacological interventions.
The workshop further underscored the value of cross-disciplinary collaboration in advancing research and supporting innovation in the field. Bringing together expertise from multiple domains was seen as essential to addressing complex scientific questions and translating findings into practical applications.
Proceedings from the workshop will be published to capture the scientific discussions and support continued knowledge sharing within the metabolic health community.
Overall, the workshop reinforced the need for a more integrated approach to metabolic health, bridging nutrition, clinical practice and biomedical research.
Co-organised by the ILSI Europe Prebiotics Task Force and the Nutrition for the Ageing Brain Symposium Committee