GLP-1 Agonists Compared: GLP1-S, GLP2-T & GLP3-R
A comprehensive analysis of incretin-based research peptides. Compare single, dual, and triple receptor agonists—their mechanisms, binding profiles, molecular structures, and research applications.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | GLP1-S | GLP2-T | GLP3-R |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receptor Type | Single (GLP-1) | Dual (GIP + GLP-1) | Triple (GIP + GLP-1 + Glucagon) |
| Amino Acids | 31 | 39 | 39 |
| Molecular Weight | ~4,114 Da | ~4,814 Da | ~4,464 Da |
| Half-Life | ~7 days | ~5 days | ~6 days |
| Research Phase | Well-established | Well-established | Emerging |
| BioInfinity Product | GLP1-S | GLP2-T | GLP3-R |
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) agonists represent one of the most actively researched classes of peptides in metabolic science. From single-receptor GLP1-S to the emerging triple-agonist GLP3-R, understanding the differences between these peptides is essential for designing informed research protocols.
This guide examines three generations of incretin-based peptides: the selective GLP-1 agonist GLP1-S, the dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist GLP2-T, and the novel triple agonist GLP3-R. Each offers distinct mechanisms and research applications.
GLP1-S: Selective GLP-1 Agonist
Molecular Profile
Type: Single GLP-1 receptor agonist
Amino Acids: 31
Base: Modified GLP-1 (7-37) analog
MW: ~4,114 Da
Half-Life: ~7 days (extended)
Modifications: C18 fatty acid chain
Mechanism of Action
GLP1-S selectively activates the GLP-1 receptor with high affinity. Key mechanisms include:
- GLP-1 Receptor Activation: Potent and selective binding to GLP-1R, mimicking endogenous GLP-1 but with extended duration.
- Glucose-Dependent Insulin Secretion: Enhances insulin release only when glucose is elevated, reducing hypoglycemia risk in research models.
- Albumin Binding: The C18 fatty acid modification enables albumin binding, dramatically extending half-life to ~7 days.
Research Applications
- • Metabolic pathway research
- • Glucose homeostasis studies
- • Incretin system research
- • Appetite regulation mechanisms
GLP2-T: Dual GIP/GLP-1 Agonist
Molecular Profile
Type: Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist
Amino Acids: 39
Base: Modified GIP analog with GLP-1 activity
MW: ~4,814 Da
Half-Life: ~5 days
Modifications: C20 fatty diacid chain
Mechanism of Action
GLP2-T represents a significant advancement as a "twincretin"—simultaneously activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors:
- GIP Receptor Agonism: Primary affinity for glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptors, enhancing incretin effects.
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonism: Imbalanced affinity favoring GIP (~5:1 ratio), but still providing significant GLP-1 pathway activation.
- Synergistic Effects: Dual receptor activation may produce effects beyond what either pathway achieves alone.
Research Applications
- • Dual incretin pathway research
- • GIP receptor characterization
- • Metabolic synergy studies
- • Comparative incretin research
GLP3-R: Triple Agonist (GIP/GLP-1/Glucagon)
Molecular Profile
Type: Triple GIP/GLP-1/Glucagon agonist
Amino Acids: 39
Designation: LY3437943
MW: ~4,464 Da
Half-Life: ~6 days
Status: Investigational
Mechanism of Action
GLP3-R introduces a third receptor—glucagon—creating a novel "triple agonist" profile:
- GIP Receptor Agonism: Primary incretin pathway activation similar to GLP2-T.
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonism: Secondary incretin pathway for glucose-dependent effects.
- Glucagon Receptor Agonism: Novel addition that may influence energy expenditure and lipid metabolism pathways in research models.
Research Note
GLP3-R is an emerging research compound with less published literature than GLP1-S or GLP2-T. Researchers should consult the latest publications for updated findings on this triple-agonist peptide.
Research Applications
- • Triple receptor pathway research
- • Glucagon receptor characterization
- • Energy expenditure studies
- • Novel incretin mechanism research
Comparative Receptor Binding Analysis
GLP1-S
GLP2-T
GLP3-R
Receptor binding intensity is relative and simplified for comparison. Actual binding affinities vary by assay conditions and should be referenced from primary literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GLP1-S and GLP2-T?
GLP1-S is a selective GLP-1 receptor agonist, while GLP2-T is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that activates both pathways simultaneously.
What makes GLP3-R different from other GLP-1 agonists?
GLP3-R is a triple agonist that activates GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors simultaneously—a unique three-receptor mechanism not found in other incretin peptides.
Which GLP-1 peptide is most potent?
Potency depends on context. GLP1-S has high GLP-1 affinity, GLP2-T activates two receptors, and GLP3-R activates three. Each has unique binding profiles.
How do I store GLP-1 research peptides?
Store lyophilized at -20°C long-term or 2-8°C short-term. Reconstituted peptides at 2-8°C for 4-6 weeks. Never freeze reconstituted solutions.
Can GLP-1 peptides be combined?
Researchers typically do not combine multiple GLP-1 agonists as they act on overlapping pathways. Consult published protocols for specific combination studies.