glucagon-like peptide-1 (Gly8)

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (Gly8), also known as [Gly8]-GLP-1, is a synthetic peptide analog of the human incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It is characterized by the substitution of the alanine residue at position 8 with glycine, a modification specifically designed to confer resistance against rapid degradation by the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV). This enzymatic resistance significantly extends the peptide's biological half-life compared to native GLP-1, which is otherwise inactivated within minutes. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, [Gly8]-GLP-1 stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, suppresses glucagon secretion, and slows gastric emptying, thereby improving glycemic control. While primarily utilized as a research tool to investigate metabolic stability and incretin-based therapies, the Gly8 substitution principle is a foundational structural feature incorporated into several clinically approved GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as exenatide.

Other names

[Gly8]glucagon-like peptide-1Gly8-GLP-1(7-36)amideGly8-GLP-1(7-37)