Enteroglucagonrelated

Enteroglucagon-related is a term used to describe peptides, hormones, and research topics tied to enteroglucagon, the gut-derived glucagon-like system that influences metabolism and digestion. Historically, enteroglucagon referred to a family of glucagon-related peptides produced in the enteroendocrine L cells of the small intestine and colon.

The term encompasses proglucagon-derived peptides such as glicentin, oxyntomodulin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2). Modern literature typically distinguishes these individual peptides, with enteroglucagon used less often as a single category. Enteroglucagon-related discussions often appear in studies of the gut–pancreas axis and incretin biology, where multiple gut hormones interact to regulate metabolism after a meal.

Physiological roles of enteroglucagon-related peptides include regulation of nutrient-stimulated insulin secretion, modulation of gastric emptying and intestinal motility, and promotion of intestinal mucosal growth (notably GLP-2). They are released in response to nutrient intake, with particularly strong responses to carbohydrates and fats.

Clinical relevance centers on how alterations in gut glucagon-family peptide secretion affect conditions such as diabetes and obesity. Pharmacologic targeting of this system—through GLP-1 receptor agonists or DPP-4 inhibitors—forms a major component of contemporary therapies for type 2 diabetes and obesity, influencing the overall activity of enteroglucagon-related pathways. Assays for these peptides can vary in specificity, and modern methods often distinguish GLP-1, GLP-2, glicentin, and oxyntomodulin with peptide-specific tests or mass spectrometry.

See also: proglucagon, incretin, GLP-1, GLP-2, glicentin, oxyntomodulin.