Oxyntomodulin

Oxyntomodulin (OXM) is a naturally occurring hormone that is produced in the L cells of the small intestine and colon. It is a member of the glucagon superfamily of peptides, which also includes glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2). Oxyntomodulin is released in response to food intake and plays a role in the regulation of food intake and body weight.

Structure and Function

Oxyntomodulin is a 37-amino acid peptide that is derived from the same precursor molecule as glucagon, proglucagon. It is produced by post-translational processing of proglucagon in the L cells of the intestine. The hormone has a dual agonist activity, acting on both the glucagon receptor and the GLP-1 receptor.

The primary function of oxyntomodulin is to regulate food intake and body weight. It does this by promoting satiety, or the feeling of fullness, and by increasing energy expenditure. Oxyntomodulin also has a role in glucose homeostasis, as it stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion.

Clinical Significance

Due to its role in regulating food intake and body weight, oxyntomodulin has been investigated as a potential treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Several studies have shown that administration of oxyntomodulin can reduce food intake and body weight in both animals and humans. In addition, it has been shown to improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

However, the therapeutic use of oxyntomodulin is currently limited by its short half-life in the body and the need for multiple daily injections. Research is ongoing to develop long-acting oxyntomodulin analogs that can be administered less frequently.

See Also

• Glucagon
• Glucagon-like peptide 1
• Glucagon-like peptide 2
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes