Description
Glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2) is an endogenous peptide hormone primarily synthesized in the intestine and pancreas. GLP-2 binds and activates the GLP-2 receptor, exhibiting vasodilatory, antihypertensive, antidepressant, and gastrointestinal motility modulating activities. In animal models, GLP-2 increases intestinal blood flow and decreases mean arterial blood pressure. GLP-2 potentiates L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels through a mechanism that involves activation of PKA. Additionally, GLP-2 decreases immobility time in animals undergoing the forced swim test. This peptide stimulates cell proliferation, inhibiting chemotherapy-induced mucosal atrophy in the intestines. GLP-2 also decreases gastric emptying and gastrointestinal motility.