Exendin-4 mimics the incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and shares 53% sequence homology with GLP-1 (aa 7-36) amide. Interacts with the same membrane receptor, GLP1R, and induces hypotension that is mediated by relaxation of cardiac smooth muscle.
The native hormone is produced in the gut of Gila monster Heloderma suspectrum that stimulates insulin production without causing threateningly low blood sugar, which can occur after using some anti-diabetes products. Researchers used extracted saliva from Gila monsters to create an unprecedented breakthrough in Type 2 diabetes treatment. Unlike other products taken for type 2 diabetes, Exendin-4 has not been linked with weight gain and actually resulted in weight loss, according to the researchers. Exendin-4 enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses inappropriately elevated secretion and slows gastric emptying in vivo. It also promotes B-cell proliferation and neogenesis in vitro and in animal models. Exendin-4 stimulates an increase in acinar cAMP, without stimulating the release of amylase.
