View source for Glucagon-like peptide-1

== Glucagon-like peptide-1 ==

'''Glucagon-like peptide-1''' ('''GLP-1''') is a [[peptide]] hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating [[blood sugar]] levels. The term is derived from the Greek words ''glukus'' meaning sweet, ''agon'' meaning contest, and ''peptide'' which refers to a type of molecule made up of amino acids.

=== Pronunciation ===

Glu·ca·gon-like pep·tide-1

=== Etymology ===

The term "glucagon" is derived from ''glukus'' (Greek for sweet) and ''agon'' (Greek for contest). The term "peptide" is derived from ''peptos'' (Greek for digested), referring to a type of molecule made up of [[amino acids]].

=== Function ===

GLP-1 is secreted by the [[L cells]] of the small intestine and colon in response to food intake. It stimulates the release of [[insulin]] from the pancreas, inhibits the secretion of [[glucagon]] (a hormone that raises blood sugar levels), and slows gastric emptying. This results in a decrease in blood sugar levels.

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Insulin]]: A hormone that regulates the amount of glucose in the blood.
* [[Glucagon]]: A hormone that works with insulin to control blood sugar levels.
* [[Peptide]]: A compound consisting of two or more amino acids linked in a chain.
* [[L cells]]: Cells in the lining of the small intestine and colon that secrete GLP-1.
* [[Blood sugar]]: The concentration of glucose in the blood.

=== See Also ===

* [[Diabetes]]
* [[Hormone]]
* [[Pancreas]]

[[Category:Endocrinology]]
[[Category:Peptides]]
[[Category:Hormones]]

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