GLP-2
Glucagon-Like Peptide-2 (native intestinal hormone)
Also known as: GLP-2 (1-33)
A natural gut hormone that promotes growth and repair of the intestinal lining, the basis for the drug teduglutide.
Overview
GLP-2 is an intestinal hormone released with GLP-1 after meals, but its main role is trophic: it promotes growth, repair, and blood flow of the gut lining rather than affecting blood sugar. Its short natural half-life led to the longer-acting analogue teduglutide for short bowel syndrome. It is a native hormone, not itself a marketed drug.
Mechanism of action
Activates GLP-2 receptors to stimulate intestinal mucosal growth, reduce cell death, and improve gut barrier function.
Key studies & citations
- Animal1996
Induction of intestinal epithelial proliferation by glucagon-like peptide 2
Identified GLP-2 as the proglucagon-derived signal that drives small-intestinal epithelial growth in mice.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences - Review2014
Physiology and pharmacology of the enteroendocrine hormone glucagon-like peptide-2
GLP-2 rises after meals, increases mesenteric blood flow, nutrient absorption and gut barrier function; basis for teduglutide.
Annual Review of Physiology
Frequently asked questions
Does GLP-2 help with weight or blood sugar?
Not primarily. Its main role is growing and repairing the intestinal lining, which is why its analogue is used for short bowel syndrome rather than diabetes.