Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: It has been shown that for identical increases in plasma glucose levels, the insulin response was greater when glucose was ingested orally compared with intravenous injection. This indicates that, in addition to glucose interacting with beta cells in the islets of Langerhans, gut-derived factors were released to stimulate insulin secretion. In humans, two peptide hormones, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), have been identified as responsible for this “incretin” effect. GLP-1 and GIP are secreted in response to food intake and enhance the glucose-induced insulin response. These peptides also decrease food intake through a dual mechanism: central, acting on the appetite regulation centres, and peripheral, acting on gastric emptying. Due to their metabolic effects, incretin receptor agonists have been developed for therapeutic purposes, initially with GLP-1 receptor agonists, then with dual GLP-1 receptor and GIP receptor agonists in diabetes and obesity. These agonists have additional benefits, particularly on the cardiovascular system, which may be independent of their effect on weight and blood glucose control. This review article provides an update of physiologic and therapeutic insights of incretins.
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,090
OpenAlex ID: W7213243996