LABS
Liraglutide0.6mg × 5 pens · RESEARCH USE ONLY
Liraglutide
GLP-1 analog — the active compound in Saxenda — studied for incretin-based appetite and glucose regulation research.
Product information
For research use only. Not for human consumption, diagnostic, therapeutic or veterinary use.
Overview
Liraglutide is a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk as the first once-daily incretin mimetic. It is the active compound in Victoza (diabetes research) and Saxenda (obesity research, at higher doses). Liraglutide is a modified analog of native GLP-1(7-37) with a single amino acid substitution (Arg34Lys) and a C-16 fatty acid (palmitic acid) attached via a glutamic acid spacer at position 26. These modifications confer a plasma half-life of approximately 13 hours through albumin binding and DPP-IV resistance.
Mechanism of Action
Liraglutide activates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, brain, and GI tract. In pancreatic beta cells, it enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion through cAMP-mediated EPAC2 and PKA activation. In the CNS, it crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts on GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus and mesolimbic reward circuits, reducing appetite and food reward signalling. It also slows gastric emptying through vagal mechanisms. Compared to semaglutide, liraglutide has a shorter half-life requiring daily dosing but provides a well-characterised pharmacological profile with extensive clinical data spanning over 15 years.
Research Applications
- GLP-1 receptor agonism and incretin biology research
- Appetite and food reward pathway investigation
- Pancreatic beta cell function and insulin secretion studies
- Gastric emptying and GI motility research
- Comparative GLP-1 agonist pharmacology studies