GLP-2 is created by specific post-translational proteolytic cleavage of proglucagon in a process that also liberates the related glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).
GLP-2 may act in an endocrine fashion to link intestinal growth and metabolism with nutrient intake.
GLP-2 and related analogs may be treatments for short bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, osteoporosis and as adjuvant therapy during cancer chemotherapy.
GLP-2 has an antidepressant effect in a mouse model of depression when delivered via intracerebroventricular injection.
However, a GLP-2 derivative (PAS-CPP-GLP-2) was shown to be efficiently delivered to the brain intranasally, with similar efficacy.