Utilizing the GLP-1 signaling system to treat diabetes: sorting through the pharmacologic approaches.
Journal Article (Journal Article;Review)
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an intestinal hormone that promotes glucose homeostasis through the regulation of insulin and glucagon secretion, gastric emptying, and food intake. This spectrum of effects makes GLP-1 an attractive candidate for drug development. However, because GLP-1 is a small peptide with rapid metabolism in the circulation, its usefulness to treat patients is limited. However, GLP-1 mimetics that are resistant to degradation have been developed and are effective in lowering blood glucose in diabetic patients. A second strategy for harnessing GLP-1 therapeutically is to inhibit the metabolism of endogenous GLP-1; several orally available compounds are in clinical trials. These two new classes of drugs both enhance GLP-1 signaling but differ in several key characteristics that may lead to distinct roles in the treatment of diabetic patients.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- D'Alessio, DA; Vahl, TP
Published Date
- October 2005
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 5 / 5
Start / End Page
- 346 - 352
PubMed ID
- 16188169
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
- 1534-4827
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1007/s11892-005-0092-2
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States