Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) in diabetes and aging

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) is an intestinal hormone that is secreted after meals and augments insulin secretion in response to absorbed glucose. Experiments in animals have demonstrated that GLP-1 is necessary for normal glucose tolerance. GLP-1 is effective in lowering blood glucose levels in persons with diabetes by increasing insulin secretion, and by suppressing glucagon release, delaying gastric emptying, and possibly other mechanisms as well. Recent studies investigating a potential role for decreased GLP-1 secretion in the glucose intolerance of aging have been inconclusive. However, ongoing research on the therapeutic application of GLP-1 is promising, and GLP-1 or GLP-1 receptor agonists may provide a novel means of treating diabetes and glucose intolerance in the future.