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Gut 1999;44:81-86 doi:10.1136/gut.44.1.81
  • Nutrition

Glucagon-like peptide-1: a potent regulator of food intake in humans

  1. J-P Gutzwillerb,
  2. B Gökec,
  3. J Drewea,
  4. P Hildebranda,
  5. S Ketterera,
  6. D Handschina,
  7. R Winterhalderb,
  8. D Conenb,
  9. C Beglingera
  1. aDivision of Gastroenterology and Department of Research, University Hospital, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland, bKantonsspital Aarau, CH-5000 Aarau, Switzerland, cClinical Research Unit for Gastrointestinal Endocrinology, Philipps University of Marburg, D-35033 Marburg, Germany
  1. Dr C Beglinger.
  • Accepted 7 July 1998

Abstract

Background/Aims Studies in animals suggest a physiological role for glucagon-like peptide-1-(7–36)-amide (GLP-1) in regulating satiety. The role of GLP-1 in regulating food intake in man has, however, not been investigated.

Subjects—Sixteen healthy male subjects were examined in a double blind placebo controlled fashion.

Methods The effect of graded intravenous doses (0, 0.375, 0.75, and 1.5 pmol/kg/min) of synthetic human GLP-1 on food intake and feelings of hunger and satiety was tested in healthy volunteers.

Results Graded GLP-1 infusions resulted in a dose dependent reduction in food intake (maximal inhibition 35%, p<0.001 vcontrol) and a similar reduction in calorie intake (32%; p<0.001). Fluid ingestion was also reduced by GLP-1 (18% reduction, p<0.01). No overt side effects were produced by GLP-1, but subjects experienced less hunger and early fullness in the period before a meal during GLP-1 infusion at the highest dose (p<0.05).

Conclusions Intravenous infusions of GLP-1 decrease spontaneous food intake even at physiological plasma concentrations, implying an important role for GLP-1 in the regulation of the early satiety response in humans.

Footnotes

  • Abbreviations:
    GLP-1
    glucagon-like peptide-1
    CCK
    cholecystokinin

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