Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) Inhibitors: New Oral Medications for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance at peripheral target tissues, and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. It is a global health problem with epidemic proportions and a huge economic burden. The dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP-4) inhibitors are a new class of antihyperglycaemic agents that are developed for the treatment of T2D. Many clinical studies have suggested that DPP-4 inhibitors (gliptins) are safe from cardiovascular perspective, and may also possess cardioprotective effect. These are regulators of inflammation and metabolism, and also prevent the proteolytic breakdown. These reduce postprandial glucose with minimal risk of hypoglycaemia and gastrointestinal adverse effects. These increase biologically intact forms of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), both of which enhance glucose-induced insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells. These medications become popular and are widely used worldwide for their efficacy, safety, weight neutrality, and tolerability. This article reviews basic studies of the DPP-4 inhibitors in briefly for the management of T2D.