Pharmacology
Incretin
A gut hormone that stimulates insulin release in response to food intake — primarily GLP-1 and GIP.
Definition
Incretins are hormones released from the gut after eating that amplify insulin release from pancreatic beta cells. GLP-1 and GIP are the two principal incretins. Incretin-mimicking peptides form the basis of modern diabetes and obesity therapy.
Related terms
Back to the full peptide glossary.