PMID: 20644202Aug 5, 2010Paper

Incretin physiology and its role in type 2 diabetes mellitus

The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
Frank Svec

Abstract

Incretins are hormones that are released after ingestion of a meal and augment the secretion of insulin. Current research suggests that GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) is the most important. Their action is terminated by enzymes known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). The observation that the incretin response may be diminished in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus has led to advances in the management of this disease. Agents that act as incretin mimetics, such as exenatide and liraglutide, and DPP-4 inhibitors, such as sitagliptin phosphate and saxagliptin, improve glycated hemoglobin levels either as monotherapy or in combination with other agents. Importantly, these agents either lead to weight loss or are weight neutral and are associated with a low risk of hypoglycemia--properties that further contribute to their clinical utility.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Cardiovascular Biology of GLP-1

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) plays a role in glucose metabolism, energy homeostasis, and inflammation suppression. GLP-1 receptor signaling has been shown to impact cardiovascular function. This feed focuses on the role of GLP-1 and GLP-1 receptor agonists on cardiovascular biology.