The incretin co-agonist tirzepatide requires GIPR for hormone secretion from human islets

The incretins glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) mediate insulin responses that are proportionate to nutrient intake to facilitate glucose tolerance(1). The GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) is an established drug target for the treatment of diabetes and obesity(2), whereas the therapeutic potential of the GIP receptor (GIPR) is a subject of debate. Tirzepatide is an agonist at both the GIPR and GLP-1R and is a highly effective treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity(3,4). However, although tirzepatide activates GIPR in cell lines and mouse models, it is not clear whether or how dual agonism contributes to its therapeutic benefit. Islet beta cells express both the GLP-1R and the GIPR, and insulin secretion is an established mechanism by which incretin agonists improve glycemic control(5). Here, we show that in mouse islets, tirzepatide stimulates insulin secretion predominantly through the GLP-1R, owing to reduced potency at the mouse GIPR. However, in human islets, antagonizing GIPR activity consistently decreases the insulin response to tirzepatide. Moreover, tirzepatide enhances glucagon secretion and somatostatin secretion in human islets. These data demonstrate that tirzepatide stimulates islet hormone secretion from human islets through both incretin receptors.

Automated summary

This study shows that tirzepatide, through dual activation of GLP-1R and GIPR, is highly effective in treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. It predominantly stimulates insulin secretion through GLP-1R in mouse islets, but enhances hormone secretion through both incretin receptors in human islets.