Early intervention with liraglutide improves glucose tolerance without affecting islet microcirculation in young Goto-Kakizaki rats

► The GLP-1R agonist liraglutide is an effective anti-diabetic agent. ► We investigated changes in islet blood flow, insulinemia and glycemia in GK rats. ► Liraglutide reduced body weight gain and improved glucose tolerance. ► Liraglutide halts the natural progression towards diabetes in GK rats. ► Liraglutide does not affect islet microcirculation or pancreatic insulin content.