Exendin-4 is a potent glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist (Kd = 136 pM). It shares 53% amino-acid sequence identity to mammalian GLP-1.
Uses & applications
Exendin-4 shows similar biological actions to GLP-1 and has many glucoregulatory actions. For example, in a glucose dependent manner, it enhances insulin secretion, supresses inappropriately high glucagon section, slows gastric emptying and reduces food intake.
It has also confers cardioprotection after myocardial infarction and provides neuroprotective actions.
It additionally modulates cell-survival mechanisms in various types of cells.
Exendin-4 is a high potency agonist and truncated exendin-(9-39)-amide an antagonist at the glucagon-like peptide 1-(7-36)-amide receptor of insulin-secreting beta-cells
Göke R et al (1993) J Biol Chem 268(26) : 19650-5