Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists: New Evidence of Kidney and Cardiovascular Protection From the FLOW and SELECT Trials
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone normally secreted by neuroendocrine L cells of the gastrointestinal tract after food ingestion that augments glucose-dependent insulin secretion by pancreatic islet β cells. Additionally, GLP-1 reduces glucagon secretion by islet α cells, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite through effects on the hypothalamus.1 GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) were therefore developed as drugs for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Early trials confirmed the predicted effects of improved glycemic control but also observed substantial weight loss.