What is GLP-1, What Does It Do, and Where Does It Come From?

In today's episode of The Metabolic Classroom, Dr. Ben Bikman delves into the fascinating topic of GLP-1, a hormone of significant interest in metabolic research. Dr. Bikman sets the stage by expanding the discussion beyond GLP-1 to include other incretions, defining them as a class of hormones produced by the small intestine. These hormones play crucial roles in nutrient metabolism, satiety, and hunger regulation.

The discovery of incretions stemmed from observations following gastric bypass surgeries, where elevated levels of these hormones were found in the bloodstream, leading to improvements in diabetes. Dr. Bikman highlights GLP-1's well-known effect on insulin secretion and glucagon suppression, which contribute to its ability to rapidly correct high glucose levels and improve diabetes. However, he notes the ongoing debate regarding GLP-1's direct insulin secretagogue effect in humans, contrasting findings from cell culture and animal models with recent human studies.

Moving beyond GLP-1, Dr. Bikman discusses other incretions like GIP, PYY, and cholecystokinin, outlining their roles in glucose regulation, appetite control, and digestion. He explores the pharmacological applications of GLP-1 agonists in managing diabetes and obesity, detailing various drugs and their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, he touches upon natural methods to enhance GLP-1 secretion, including dietary factors like protein, fat, and sugars. The session concludes with insights into the live Q&A session, emphasizing the dynamic interaction between science and audience participation in The Metabolic Classroom.

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