Exenatide is a synthetic peptide that mimics the action of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. It is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and is available under various brand names, including Byetta and Bydureon . Exenatide helps control blood sugar levels by enhancing the body’s natural ability to produce insulin, reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, and slowing down the digestion of food .
Exenatide is synthesized using recombinant DNA technology. The process involves the following steps:
Exenatide is a 39-amino acid peptide with the molecular formula C184H282N50O60S and a molar mass of 4186.63 g/mol . Its structure includes several important functional groups, such as amide bonds, which are crucial for its biological activity. The peptide sequence of exenatide is as follows:
H-His-Gly-Glu-Gly-Thr-Phe-Thr-Ser-Asp-Leu-Ser-Lys-Gln-Met-Glu-Glu-Glu-Ala-Val-Arg-Leu-Phe-Ile-Glu-Trp-Leu-Lys-Asn-Gly-Gly-Pro-Ser-Ser-Gly-Ala-Pro-Pro-Ser-NH2
The biological activity of exenatide is primarily attributed to its ability to bind to and activate the GLP-1 receptor, which triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling events that enhance insulin secretion, inhibit glucagon release, and slow gastric emptying . These actions collectively contribute to improved glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.