The Incretin System
The incretin system is the network of gut hormones released after eating that coordinate the body's metabolic response.
Incretins are gut hormones released in response to nutrient intake.
GLP-1 and GIP are the two principal incretin hormones.
Together they coordinate glucose-dependent signalling after meals.
What is the incretin system?
The incretin system is the collective term for gut-derived hormones released after eating. Its two central members are GLP-1 and GIP, both of which act through their own receptors.
Studying the incretins as a system — rather than in isolation — is a foundation of modern metabolic peptide research.
The key hormones
GLP-1 is studied for satiety signalling and glucose-dependent responses. GIP is studied for nutrient handling and works in parallel. Together they form the incretin axis.
Frequently asked questions
What are incretins?+
Incretins are hormones released by the gut after eating that coordinate the metabolic response to nutrients.
Related topics
For laboratory research use only. Not for human or animal consumption.
Continue learning
GLP-1: The Satiety Signal
GLP-1 is an incretin hormone released after eating that engages a receptor system central to appetite and glucose-dependent signalling.
GIP: The Energy Coordinator
GIP is an incretin hormone released after nutrient intake that works alongside GLP-1 to coordinate the body's metabolic response.
Glucagon: The Fasting Signal
Glucagon is a hormone released during fasting that signals the liver and helps maintain blood glucose availability.
Triple Agonists: One System, Three Pathways
Triple agonists are research peptides designed to engage the GLP-1, GIP and glucagon receptors simultaneously.
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