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GLP-1

Metabolic & Weight
Glucagon-like peptide-1GLP-1(7-36)amide

Overview

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone primarily produced in the intestinal L-cells in response to food intake. It is a 30-amino acid peptide derived from the proglucagon gene and exists in several forms, with GLP-1(7-36)amide being the most biologically active. Researchers have synthesized GLP-1 analogs to enhance its stability and therapeutic potential, given its rapid degradation by the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). GLP-1 is a significant focus in metabolic research due to its role in glucose homeostasis and appetite regulation. Researchers have observed that GLP-1 enhances insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, inhibits glucagon release, and slows gastric emptying, contributing to its potential in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. Additionally, GLP-1 has been investigated for its neuroprotective effects and potential benefits in cardiovascular health. The mechanism of action of GLP-1 involves binding to the GLP-1 receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor, which activates adenylate cyclase and increases cyclic AMP levels, leading to insulin secretion and other downstream effects. Pharmacokinetically, GLP-1 has a short half-life of approximately 1-2 minutes due to rapid enzymatic degradation, necessitating the development of longer-acting analogs for therapeutic use. The bioavailability of GLP-1 is poor when administered orally, thus it is typically delivered via injection. Current research on GLP-1 focuses on developing stable analogs and exploring its broader therapeutic applications. In terms of regulatory status, GLP-1 analogs are approved for use in managing type 2 diabetes in several countries, though the native peptide itself is not used therapeutically due to its instability.

Mechanism of Action

GLP-1 exerts its effects by binding to the GLP-1 receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor, which activates adenylate cyclase and increases cyclic AMP levels. This signaling cascade enhances insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells and inhibits glucagon release from alpha cells, contributing to glucose homeostasis.

Molecular Data

FormulaC149H226N40O45
Molecular Weight3297.6 g/mol
CAS Number89750-14-1
PubChem CID16133831

Half-Life

Subcutaneous~4 hours for analogs
Intravenous~1-2 minutes
IntranasalNot applicable
OralPoor bioavailability

Native GLP-1 is rapidly degraded by DPP-4, leading to a short half-life.

Storage

Lyophilized

Stable for 2+ years at -20°C, 12 months at 4°C

Reconstituted

Use within 14 days when refrigerated at 4°C

Avoid

Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct light

Solvent

Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline recommended

Solubility

GLP-1 is soluble in water and aqueous buffers.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Not approved as a medicinal product. Not a controlled substance. Sale as research chemical is a legal grey area.

🇺🇸US

GLP-1 analogs are FDA approved for type 2 diabetes treatment. Native GLP-1 is not used therapeutically.

🇦🇺AU

GLP-1 analogs are scheduled by the TGA for therapeutic use in diabetes.

🇬🇧UK

GLP-1 analogs are approved by the MHRA for use in managing type 2 diabetes.

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

9 Research Publications

GLP-1 agonists and hair loss: a call for further investigation.

Review

International journal of dermatology · 2024

Researchers observed that the use of GLP-1 agonists, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity, may have unclear effects on hair health. While some speculate they could disrupt hair growth or lead to hair loss, others suggest potential benefits. However, there is currently limited clinical evidence to confirm these effects, highlighting the need for further investigation.

  • Researchers found that GLP-1 agonists are widely used for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.
  • Some theories suggest GLP-1 agonists might disrupt hair growth cycles or cause hair loss, while others propose possible benefits.
  • The study emphasizes the lack of clinical evidence linking GLP-1 agonists to hair loss and calls for more research.
PubMed

The benefits of GLP-1 drugs beyond obesity.

Unknown

Science (New York, N.Y.) · 2024

Researchers studied glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications and discovered that these drugs have benefits beyond just weight loss. The findings suggest that GLP-1 drugs may offer additional health advantages that are not solely related to obesity management.

  • Researchers observed that GLP-1 medications have effects that extend beyond weight loss.
  • The study highlights potential health benefits associated with GLP-1 drugs.
  • These findings indicate that GLP-1 medications may play a role in broader health improvements.
PubMed

Perioperative management of long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists: concerns for delayed gastric emptying and pulmonary aspiration.

Human

British journal of anaesthesia · 2024

Researchers studied the effects of long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are increasingly used for diabetes and weight loss, on gastric emptying and the risk of pulmonary aspiration during surgery. They found that while these medications delay gastric emptying, the risk of aspiration during anesthesia is not well understood, but caution is advised for patients who have recently started treatment.

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists delay gastric emptying, which may raise concerns during surgery.
  • The risk of pulmonary aspiration during general anesthesia for patients on these medications is currently unknown.
  • After 12 weeks of treatment, standard fasting guidelines are likely sufficient for most low-risk patients.
PubMed

GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss: Pharmacology and Clinical Implications.

Review

Advances in therapy · 2023

Researchers reviewed the use of GLP-1 agonists, a type of medication for weight loss, in adults struggling with obesity. They found that these medications can effectively reduce weight and improve related health issues, while also discussing their costs and potential barriers to use.

  • Researchers observed that GLP-1 agonists significantly decrease weight and lower HbA1c levels.
  • The review highlighted the importance of understanding the differences between various obesity medications to better support patient choices.
  • Researchers noted challenges in long-term adherence to GLP-1 agonists and reasons why some patients discontinue their use.
PubMed

Glucagon-like peptide-1: a multi-faceted anti-inflammatory agent.

Review

Frontiers in immunology · 2023

Researchers observed that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has important anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect against chronic diseases. The study highlights the connection between elevated GLP-1 levels and inflammation, particularly in conditions like type-2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. This review also discusses how GLP-1 can benefit cardiovascular and nervous system health by reducing inflammation.

  • Researchers found that GLP-1 levels are often elevated in inflammatory conditions and correlate with disease severity.
  • The study highlighted GLP-1's role as an adjuvant therapy in managing type-2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome by lowering inflammation.
  • Researchers observed that GLP-1 may protect cells in the cardiovascular and nervous systems by reducing cell damage and death.
PubMed

The role of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) in addictive disorders.

Review

British journal of pharmacology · 2022

Researchers reviewed the role of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) in addressing addictive disorders like drug, alcohol, and tobacco use. They found that GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are used for diabetes and obesity, may reduce substance intake based on studies in animals, and clinical trials are underway to explore these effects in humans.

  • GLP-1 is linked to reduced appetite and may influence addictive behaviors.
  • Animal studies showed that GLP-1 receptor agonists decreased alcohol and drug consumption.
  • The potential effects of GLP-1 on addiction may involve dopamine signaling, but more research is needed to clarify the mechanisms.
PubMed

Boosting GLP-1 by Natural Products.

Unknown

Advances in experimental medicine and biology · 2021

Researchers studied the effects of natural products on a hormone called GLP-1, which plays a role in managing blood sugar levels. They found that certain herbal ingredients, including berberine, tea, and curcumin, can influence the release of GLP-1, potentially offering new avenues for diabetes management.

  • Researchers observed that herbal-based constituents can affect GLP-1 expression and secretion.
  • Natural products such as cinnamon and resveratrol were identified as having a positive influence on GLP-1 release.
  • The study highlights the potential of using natural products alongside traditional diabetes treatments.
PubMed

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1).

Review

Molecular metabolism · 2019

Researchers observed that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a versatile hormone with various beneficial effects on metabolism, including regulating insulin secretion and reducing appetite. The study highlights its potential for treating conditions like type-2 diabetes and obesity, as well as its positive impact on heart and brain health.

  • GLP-1 stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner and slows down gastric emptying.
  • The hormone has protective effects on the heart and brain, reduces inflammation, and influences learning and memory.
  • Modified GLP-1 receptor agonists are currently used in clinical settings for diabetes and are being evaluated for obesity treatment.
PubMed

GLP-1: Molecular mechanisms and outcomes of a complex signaling system.

Review

Neurochemistry international · 2019

Researchers reviewed the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone released during meals, in regulating energy balance and eating behavior. They found that GLP-1 not only affects bodily functions but also influences brain circuits related to behavior, highlighting its complex signaling system.

  • Researchers observed that GLP-1 plays a significant role in managing energy homeostasis and feeding behavior.
  • The study found that GLP-1 can modify behavior by interacting with various neural circuits.
  • Researchers highlighted the diverse actions of GLP-1, suggesting its potential for future research in obesity and diabetes.
PubMed

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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or replaces consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.