hormone

GLP-1

GLP-1 is an intestinal peptide hormone released after meals that helps coordinate insulin, glucagon and gastrointestinal responses.

L cells in the distal intestine release GLP-1; native GLP-1 is rapidly broken down, so medicines that activate its receptor are separate from the endogenous hormone.

An incretin signal

GLP-1 release responds to nutrients and neural input. It helps stimulate insulin release when blood glucose is elevated, can suppress glucagon, and slows the movement of food out of the stomach.

Roles and processes

  • GLP-1 signals to Appetite regulation

    GLP-1 contributes gut-derived signals to appetite and satiety circuits.

Related topics

  • GLP-1 stimulates glucose-dependent release of Insulin

    GLP-1 released after nutrient exposure can stimulate glucose-dependent insulin release.

Worth knowing

  • Glucose-dependent is a key qualifier. GLP-1 stimulates insulin secretion when glucose is present; this glucose dependence is part of its physiology.

  • DPP-4 breaks down native GLP-1. Native GLP-1 has a short half-life because dipeptidyl peptidase-4 rapidly degrades it.

A closer look

Native hormone and medicine differ

Endogenous GLP-1 has a short half-life because of rapid breakdown. Receptor-agonist medicines have different exposure, evidence and safety questions.

References

Source-checked local draft.
Human editorial review pending.

  1. NIH National Library of MedicinePhysiology, Appetite And Weight RegulationChecked 2026-09-05