To which hormone does oxyntomodulin have an agonist effect?

Oxyntomodulin is a hormone that is produced in the intestines and is known for its role in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. The correct answer, glucagon, is a key hormone produced by the pancreas that plays an important role in glucose homeostasis.

Oxyntomodulin acts as an agonist for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors, which are involved in various metabolic processes, including insulin secretion and appetite regulation. When oxyntomodulin binds to its receptors, it mimics the actions of glucagon in stimulating gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, thereby influencing blood sugar levels.

The relationship between oxyntomodulin and glucagon is significant because oxyntomodulin can both reduce appetite and enhance energy expenditure, mechanisms that align closely with the physiological roles of glucagon. This makes its agonistic effect on glucagon receptors a pivotal aspect of understanding the interactions of gastrointestinal hormones in the context of obesity and metabolic health.