From native GLP-1 to retatrutide — a generation-by-generation breakdown of the GLP peptide family covering receptor targets, clinical evidence, mechanisms, and what distinguishes each compound from the last.
What Is the GLP Peptide Family?
The glucagon-like peptides (GLPs) are a family of hormones derived from the proglucagon gene. This single gene produces different hormones depending on which tissue is processing it — GLP-1 in intestinal L-cells, GLP-2 in intestinal L-cells and neurons.
The Evolution of GLP Therapeutics
Mojsov et al. identified GLP-1 as a potent insulin secretagogue in 1987. The 1–2 minute half-life made it impractical as a therapeutic — but established the receptor biology that drove all subsequent drug development.
Compound Profiles
Glucose-dependent insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, appetite reduction via hypothalamic GLP-1R, gastric emptying delay — the four core mechanisms shared across all GLP-1 receptor agonists.