Introduction
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists represent one of the most actively researched classes of peptides in contemporary metabolic science. Originally investigated in the context of type 2 diabetes and pancreatic beta-cell function, GLP-1 analogues have since become central to research into obesity, cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, and inflammation.
All compounds discussed are supplied for research and laboratory use only. Not for human or veterinary administration.
GLP-1 Physiology
GLP-1 is an incretin hormone secreted by L-cells in the distal small intestine and colon in response to nutrient ingestion. Its primary physiological roles include:
- Stimulation of glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells
- Suppression of glucagon release from alpha cells
- Slowing of gastric emptying
- Reduction of appetite via hypothalamic signalling
- Promotion of beta-cell proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis
Native GLP-1 has a plasma half-life of approximately 2 minutes due to rapid degradation by DPP-4. Research analogues are engineered to resist this degradation, extending their half-life substantially.
Key Research Compounds
Semaglutide
A GLP-1 receptor agonist with ~94% amino acid sequence homology to native GLP-1. Acylated with a C18 fatty diacid chain enabling albumin binding and a half-life of ~7 days. Research has investigated effects on body weight regulation, hepatic lipid metabolism, cardiovascular outcomes, and neuroinflammation.
Tirzepatide
A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist (twincretin). Activates both the GIP receptor and GLP-1 receptor. Research suggests synergistic effects on insulin secretion, adipose tissue metabolism, and energy expenditure compared to selective GLP-1 agonism alone.
Retatrutide
A triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors simultaneously. The addition of glucagon receptor agonism is hypothesised to further enhance energy expenditure and hepatic fat reduction. Among the most potent compounds currently under investigation for metabolic research.
Liraglutide
An earlier-generation GLP-1 analogue with a half-life of ~13 hours. Extensively studied in models of obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and neuroprotection.
Cagrilintide
An amylin analogue often studied in combination with semaglutide. Amylin acts synergistically with GLP-1 to suppress appetite and slow gastric emptying, with combination research demonstrating additive effects on body weight reduction in preclinical models.
Mazdutide & Survodutide
Emerging dual receptor agonists (GLP-1/glucagon) under active investigation for metabolic and hepatoprotective properties.
Research Applications
- Metabolic disease models: Insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, obesity, NAFLD/NASH
- Cardiovascular research: Atherosclerosis, cardiac inflammation, endothelial function
- Neurological research: Neuroinflammation, Parkinson’s disease models, cognitive function
- Renal research: Diabetic nephropathy and renal inflammation models
Storage and Handling
Store lyophilised GLP-1 peptides at −20°C. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 28 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
All products supplied by Vanta Labs are intended strictly for laboratory and research purposes.