The GLP-1 Pathway
Appetite suppression, insulin secretion, and gastric emptying
The Appetite Brake
The GLP-1 receptor is the foundation of modern obesity pharmacotherapy. Semaglutide proved that activating this single receptor could produce clinically meaningful weight loss. Retatrutide shares this mechanism but layers two more on top. This unit breaks down exactly how GLP-1 receptor activation suppresses hunger, delays stomach emptying, and fine-tunes insulin release -- the effects that all three drug classes have in common.
GLP-1 Receptor Biology
Receptor location, structure, and downstream signaling pathways.
Appetite Suppression
How GLP-1 signaling in the hypothalamus reduces hunger and food reward.
Gastric Emptying
The vagal nerve mechanism that slows stomach emptying and promotes satiety.
Insulin Secretion
Glucose-dependent insulin release and beta-cell protection.