Regulation of intestinal chylomicron production by glucagon-like peptides

Apolipoprotein B48 (apoB48)-containing triglyceride-rich lipoproteins are atherogenic and therefore it is important to understand factors that regulate their metabolism in the intestine. Insulin resistant states are associated with increased intestinal output of apo B48, but the mechanistic studies explaining this overproduction have relied heavily on models of diet-induced insulin resistance. There is evidence that glucagon-like peptide (GLP) secretion is diminished in insulin resistant and diabetic states, which may have implications for postprandial lipid secretion. This review presents a survey of studies on GLPs and intestinal lipoprotein metabolism, along with some insights into the net physiological significance of GLP action in postprandial lipoprotein metabolism. Studies with GLP-1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitors have indicated that GLP-1 in pharmacological and physiological doses can inhibit intestinal TRL production. On the other hand, GLP-2 has an acute stimulatory effect on intestinal apoB48 secretion. Modulating GLP action may serve as a strategy to improve postprandial dyslipidemia in insulin resistant states.