Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)

Definition

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and insulin regulation. It is secreted by the intestinal L-cells in response to food intake and stimulates insulin secretion while inhibiting glucagon release, contributing to lower blood glucose levels. Additionally, GLP-1 slows gastric emptying and promotes satiety, linking it to metabolic responses during stress and injury.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. GLP-1 is released in response to nutrient ingestion, particularly carbohydrates and fats, making it vital for postprandial glucose control.
2. It has a half-life of only a few minutes due to rapid degradation by the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), which is important for understanding its therapeutic potential.
3. GLP-1 receptor agonists are used as medications for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity because of their ability to enhance insulin secretion and promote weight loss.
4. In conditions of stress or injury, GLP-1 levels can be altered, impacting the body's metabolic response and insulin sensitivity.
5. Studies show that GLP-1 has neuroprotective effects and may play a role in reducing inflammation, linking it to overall health beyond just glucose regulation.

Review Questions

• How does GLP-1 contribute to the regulation of blood glucose levels during stress or injury?
  • GLP-1 contributes to blood glucose regulation during stress or injury by enhancing insulin secretion from the pancreas while inhibiting glucagon release. This dual action helps maintain lower blood sugar levels, which is especially important during times of metabolic strain. Additionally, GLP-1 slows gastric emptying and promotes feelings of fullness, further supporting glucose control in stressful situations.
• Discuss the implications of GLP-1 receptor agonists in managing type 2 diabetes and their potential benefits beyond glucose regulation.
  • GLP-1 receptor agonists are significant in managing type 2 diabetes as they mimic the effects of natural GLP-1, leading to increased insulin secretion and reduced glucagon release in a glucose-dependent manner. Beyond glucose regulation, these medications can promote weight loss and improve cardiovascular outcomes. Their ability to enhance satiety and reduce appetite further supports their role in comprehensive diabetes management.
• Evaluate how changes in GLP-1 levels might influence metabolic responses during acute stress situations, including potential therapeutic applications.
  • Changes in GLP-1 levels during acute stress can profoundly influence metabolic responses by altering insulin secretion and affecting overall glucose homeostasis. Reduced GLP-1 activity may lead to impaired insulin release, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels during stress. Understanding these dynamics opens up potential therapeutic applications for GLP-1 analogs or enhancers to mitigate adverse metabolic effects during acute stress or injury, highlighting its significance in critical care nutrition and recovery protocols.

Related terms

Incretins: Hormones that are released after eating, which enhance insulin secretion from the pancreas in a glucose-dependent manner.

Insulin:

A hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood glucose levels by facilitating cellular uptake of glucose.

Gastric Emptying: The process of food moving from the stomach to the small intestine, which can be influenced by hormones like GLP-1.