Metabolic · Incretin Mimetic Peptide
Exendin-4
A potent, long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist from Gila monster venom, used in metabolic research to study incretin hormone signaling and function.
- Length
- 39 amino acids
- Half-life
- Several hours in plasma due to DPP-4 resistance
- Mechanism
- Exendin-4 is a potent agonist for the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), mimicking the effects of the endogenous incretin hormone GLP-1.
- Studied in
- It is a widely used research tool in endocrinology and metabolic studies to investigate GLP-1R signaling, glucose homeostasis, and insulin secretion.
About Exendin-4
Exendin-4 is a 39-amino acid peptide originally isolated from the venom of the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). It shares approximately 53% sequence homology with human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and functions as a highly potent agonist at the GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R). A key structural feature is the substitution of Alanine with Glycine at position 2, which confers resistance to degradation by the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4).
This resistance to inactivation gives Exendin-4 a significantly longer biological half-life than native GLP-1, making it a powerful and stable tool for laboratory research. Activation of the GLP-1R by Exendin-4 stimulates a range of physiological responses studied in vitro and in animal models, including glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppression of glucagon release, and delayed gastric emptying. It is a standard reference compound for exploring all facets of GLP-1R biology and is a reference compound with a clinical history.
Laboratory notes
- Unlike GLP-1, Exendin-4 is highly resistant to DPP-4, a crucial experimental variable to consider when comparing their effects.
- Exendin-4 is a biased agonist at the GLP-1R, showing different preferences for downstream signaling pathways (e.g., cAMP vs. β-arrestin) compared to other agonists.
- The related peptide, Exendin (9-39), is a potent GLP-1R antagonist and can be used as a blocking agent in control experiments.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about Exendin-4
What is the source of Exendin-4?
It was originally identified in the venom of the Gila monster lizard, Heloderma suspectum.
Why is Exendin-4 longer-acting than native GLP-1?
Its amino acid sequence, particularly at position 2, makes it resistant to degradation by the DPP-4 enzyme, which rapidly inactivates GLP-1.
What is the primary research application of Exendin-4?
It is used as a stable and potent GLP-1 receptor agonist to study glucose metabolism, insulin secretion, and other physiological effects of the incretin system.
Is Exendin-4 for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.