What does GLP-1 mean?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a naturally occurring peptide produced in the gut. It plays a central role in regulating metabolism—particularly in modulating blood sugar and appetite-related signals

[Holst, 2007].

Scientists have developed synthetic versions of GLP-1, known as GLP-1 analogs or GLP-1 receptor agonists. Compounds such as semaglutide, tirzepatide, and retatrutide are currently under intensive study due to their potential in metabolic and weight-related research.

[Mullard, 2022; Jastreboff et al., 2022].

What are GLP-1 Analogs Known For?

1. Glucose Regulation

In experimental models, GLP-1 analogs like semaglutide have been observed to enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppress glucagon release, helping stabilize blood glucose levels

[Nauck et al., 1993; Drucker, 2018].

2. Gastric Emptying Modulation

GLP-1 has been shown to slow gastric emptying, which may prolong satiety and help moderate postprandial glucose spikes. This effect is well-documented in both animal and human research settings.

[Meier et al., 2002; Nauck et al., 1997].

3. Appetite Signaling Pathways

GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus and brainstem play a role in appetite suppression. GLP-1 analogs like tirzepatide and retatrutide are being studied for their effects on central appetite regulation and body weight control.

[Secher et al., 2014; Frias et al., 2021].

4. Cardiovascular Research

GLP-1 analogs have been associated with potential cardiovascular-related effects, including modulation of inflammation, endothelial function, and cardiometabolic risk markers. These outcomes are being explored in both laboratory models and human trials

[Marso et al., 2016; Drucker, 2021].

References

• Holst, J.J. (2007). The physiology of glucagon-like peptide 1. Physiological Reviews, 87(4), 1409–1439.

• Nauck, M.A., et al. (1993). Glucagon-like peptide 1 inhibits glucagon secretion and stimulates insulin secretion in humans. Diabetologia, 36(8), 741–744.

• Drucker, D.J. (2018). Mechanisms of action and therapeutic application of glucagon-like peptide-1. Cell Metabolism, 27(4), 740–756.

• Meier, J.J., et al. (2002). Effects of GLP-1 on gastric emptying and postprandial glucose control. Diabetes Care, 25(3), 463–470.

• Nauck, M.A., et al. (1997). Effects of glucagon-like peptide 1 on gastric emptying. Gastroenterology, 112(5), 1466–1473.

• Secher, A., et al. (2014). Central effects of GLP-1 on appetite regulation. Diabetes, 63(3), 798–810.

• Frias, J.P., et al. (2021). Tirzepatide vs semaglutide: effects on weight and appetite in type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 385(6), 503–515.

• Marso, S.P., et al. (2016). Liraglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 375(4), 311–322.

• Drucker, D.J. (2021). GLP-1 receptor agonists and cardiovascular disease: current status. Circulation Research, 128(9), 1361–1379.

• Mullard, A. (2022). Retatrutide enters the weight loss race. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 21, 569.

• Jastreboff, A.M., et al. (2022). Retatrutide in adults with obesity: a phase 2 trial. New England Journal of Medicine, 387(1), 110–122.

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