| Summary: | Ali A Rizvi,1 Manfredi Rizzo2 1Department of Medicine, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA; 2Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Promise), University of Palermo, Palermo, ItalyCorrespondence: Ali A Rizvi, Department of Medicine, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, 3400 Quadrangle Blvd, Orlando, Florida, 32817, USA, Tel +1 803-609-1935, Fax +1 407-882-4799, Email Ali.Rizvi@ucf.eduAbstract: The incretin pathway is a self-regulating feedback system connecting the gut with the brain, pancreas, and liver. Its predominant action is on the postprandial glucose levels, with extraglycemic effects on fat metabolism and endovascular function. Of the two main incretin hormones released with food ingestion, the actions of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) have been exploited for therapeutic benefit. However, little attention has been paid to glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) until the recent experimental introduction of dual agonists, or “twincretins”. Interestingly, simultaneous activation of both receptors is not only replicative of normal physiology, it seems to be an innovative way to enhance their mutual salubrious actions. In patients with type 2 diabetes, dual agonists can have powerful benefits for glucose control and weight reduction. Additionally, there is mounting evidence of their favorable cardiovascular impact, making them potentially appealing pharmacologic agents of choice in the future. Although we seem to be poised on the horizons of exciting new breakthroughs, much knowledge has yet to be gained before these novel agents are ready for prime time.Keywords: type 2 diabetes, incretins, glucagon-like peptide-1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide
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