Gut Hormones and the Vascular System

Abstract

Neuroendocrine cells in the gut secrete peptide hormones with a central role in digestion, metabolism and appetite regulation. More recently, some of these peptides have shown potential therapeutic value related to their effects on the cardiovascular system. The most promising examples are the incretin GLP-1, whose analogues and breakdown inhibitors are currently being used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and ghrelin, which might play a role in the future treatment of anorexia and weight loss in patients with chronic heart failure.