Endogenous glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 as alternative for GLP-1 receptor agonists: Could this work and how?

In recent years, we have witnessed the many beneficial effects of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonists, including the reduction in cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes, and the reduction of body weight in those with obesity. Increasing evidence suggests that these agents differ considerably from endogenous GLP-1 when it comes to their routes of action, although their clinical effects appear to be the same. Given the limitations of the GLP-1 receptor agonists, could it be useful to develop agents which stimulate GLP-1 release? Here we will discuss the differences and similarities between GLP-1 receptor agonists and endogenous GLP-1, and will detail how endogenous GLP-1—when stimulated appropriately—could have clinically relevant effects.