Several of the most-studied metabolic research peptides act on the incretin system. Here is a short primer on the receptors involved and how the compounds differ.
The receptors
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) are incretin hormones studied in glucose-handling and body-composition research. Glucagon receptor activity adds an energy-expenditure dimension in the literature.
Single, dual, triple
- Semaglutide — a GLP-1 receptor agonist (single target).
- Tirzepatide — a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist.
- Retatrutide — a triple GLP-1/GIP/glucagon receptor agonist.
Broadly, adding receptor targets is an active area of investigation into combined metabolic effects. The right compound for a given protocol depends entirely on the research question.
All of the above are supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research. Nothing here is medical advice or a therapeutic claim.