Gastrointestinal hormone pathways

Gastrointestinal hormone pathways encompass a diverse array of signaling systems mediated by peptides secreted by enteroendocrine cells in the stomach, intestines, and pancreas (NIH, 2021). These pathways, which include the action of hormones such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), gastrin, cholecystokinin (CCK), and somatostatin, are fundamental to the regulation of digestion, nutrient absorption, and systemic metabolism (StatPearls, 2023). Most of these hormones exert their effects by binding to specific G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) located on target tissues, including the pancreas, brain, and gastrointestinal tract (Wikipedia, 2023). In clinical practice, these pathways are major therapeutic targets; for instance, GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists are widely used to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity by enhancing insulin secretion and inducing satiety (PubMed, 2022). Conversely, somatostatin analogs are employed to suppress excessive hormone production in conditions like neuroendocrine tumors and acromegaly (NIH, 2022). While 'Gastrointestinal hormone pathways' describes a functional system, it is not a single molecular target but rather a collection of distinct hormonal signals and their respective receptors.

Other names

Gut hormone pathwaysEnteroendocrine signaling pathwaysIncretin and gastrointestinal peptide pathwaysDigestive hormone systems

Drugs targeting gastrointestinal hormone pathways primarily act as agonists of specific G protein-coupled receptors. GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion and promote satiety. Somatostatin analogs act as agonists of somatostatin receptors to inhibit the secretion of various hormones and digestive juices. Ghrelin receptor agonists are used to stimulate appetite and growth hormone release.