The therapeutic potential of targeting the glucagon-like peptide-2 receptor in gastrointestinal disease

Areas covered: The clinical evidence for benefit in conditions requiring longer term treatment with GLP-2 receptor agonists, for example short bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. Benefits of short-term GLP-2 treatment are emerging in pre-clinical models, such as post-operative ileus, GI mucositis and conditions of altered intestinal permeability. The therapeutic utility of GLP-2 receptor agonists is limited by concern that it predisposes patients to gastrointestinal cancers, or their re-occurrence in cancer patients. This affects the types of diseases treated and, possibly, the duration of dosing. Expert opinion: GLP-2 is therapeutically attractive in diseases to enhance absorptive capacity, restore mucosal health and reduce inflammation. Long-term surveillance studies with a marketed therapeutic agent are needed to weigh the benefits of GLP-2 treatment against the potential effects on co-morbidities and increased risk of intestinal carcinogenesis.