Drug targets modulating the gut-appetite-metabolism axis

Gut peptides and their receptors are becoming of more interest as possible drug targets because the physiological role of these peptides is becoming increasingly clear. The glucagon-like peptides have physiological roles in glucose homeostasis, appetite regulation and intestinal proliferation. The PP family similarly plays a role in appetite regulation, thus making these peptides a possible target for the treatment of obesity and metabolic disease. Ghrelin, in contrast to the previously mentioned peptides stimulates appetite and gut motility, making it a target for drugs improving gut motility.

Section editor:Gareth J. Sanger – Immuno-Inflammation Centre of Excellence for Drug Discovery, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, UK