GLP-1

Research

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (native hormone)

Aliases
GLP-1 (7-36)
Administration
Not applicable — native hormone, not administered directly due to rapid degradation

How it works

  1. Binds GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic beta cells to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin release

    It tells your pancreas to release insulin, but only after you've eaten and only when blood sugar is elevated.

  2. Suppresses glucagon secretion from alpha cells

    It reduces a hormone that would otherwise raise blood sugar.

  3. Slows gastric emptying

    It slows digestion so you feel full longer.

  4. Signals satiety centrally via the hypothalamus and brainstem

    It sends a 'you're full' signal directly to your brain.

  5. Rapidly degraded by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)

    An enzyme in your blood breaks it down within minutes, which is exactly why drug companies had to engineer sturdier versions of it.

Result

Better blood sugar control and reduced appetite immediately after eating — though the native hormone breaks down too quickly to be used as a treatment itself. This is the same 'full and satisfied' feeling triggered naturally after a meal — the sensation that drug versions like semaglutide are designed to extend.