Bioactive peptides and synergistic active ingredients
Definition of GLP-1
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a peptide hormone produced in the intestine that plays a central role in the regulation of glucose metabolism. It is mainly secreted by the L-cells of the ileum and colon. It belongs to the group of incretins (group of gastrointestinal hormones). One of its most important tasks is to mediate the incretin effect, in which insulin secretion is significantly greater after enteral glucose intake than after parenteral intake (1).
Scientifically validated mechanisms for optimising metabolism
The targeted activation of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) signal pathway represents an innovative approach in the field of weight management. ProGo, Hofseth Biocare's bioactive peptide complex, in combination with other scientifically validated ingredients, offers an effective way to stimulate this mechanism, which can improve glucose homeostasis, promote lipolysis and regulate food intake (2).
The importance of GLP-1 activation for metabolic balance
GLP-1 is an intestinal hormone that plays a central role in metabolic regulation (1). Its activation influences a variety of physiological processes (3):
- Increasing insulin secretion while reducing glucagon release, resulting in more stable blood glucose control.
- Modulation of gastrointestinal motility, causing delayed gastric emptying and a sustained satiety effect.
- Stimulation of lipolysis, which can contribute to improved fat and body weight reduction.
- Influencing the intestinal flora, which plays a decisive role in the regulation of energy balance and GLP-1 secretion.
Synergistic ingredients for optimised GLP-1 activation
In addition to bioactive peptides, there are a number of other nutrients that specifically contribute to enhancing GLP-1 activation:
1. Prebiotics & probiotics – supporting the intestine flora
The composition of the gut microbiome directly influences GLP-1 secretion.
- Prebiotic fibres (e.g. resistant starch, inulin, oligofructose) promote the growth of beneficial bacteria that stimulate the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) - an important stimulus for GLP-1 (4).
- Probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have been shown in studies to positively influence intestinal GLP-1 secretion (5).
2. Omega-3-rich oils - support for energy metabolism
- Algae oil and salmon oil, rich in EPA and DHA, have anti-inflammatory properties and support glucose regulation. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids influence the gut microbiome and can thus indirectly increase GLP-1 activation (6).
3. Polyphenols & plant extracts - natural GLP-1 modulators (7,8)
- Green tea extract (EGCG, catechins) → promotes GLP-1 release and improves insulin sensitivity.
- Curcumin (from turmeric) → has an anti-inflammatory effect and can stimulate GLP-1 secretion
- Quercetin (e.g. from onions, apples, berries) → inhibits the breakdown of GLP-1 and prolongs its effect.
Sustainability and origin - responsibility in the extraction of raw materials
The bioactive peptide complex, ProGo, is derived from high-quality Norwegian salmon farmed under strict sustainable aquaculture practices. At the same time, we also offer sustainable plant-based ingredients such as algae oil as an alternative source of omega-3.
- Certified sustainable fisheries - Hofseth BioCare's salmon is sourced from responsible aquaculture farms that operate under ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) and Global G.A.P. standards.
- 100% utilisation of the raw material - Using the latest biotechnological processes, valuable proteins and peptides are extracted from by-products of fish processing.
- Sustainable alternatives - In addition to salmon oil, we use algae oil as a plant-based source of omega-3 to further reduce environmental impact.
Evidence-based solution for the formulation of innovative products
Our bioactive peptide complex combined with prebiotic fibres, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols provides a science-based solution for targeted GLP-1 stimulation. This formulation approach is ideal for manufacturers of functional foods and food supplements.
Benefits for your product development:
- Clinically proven efficacy - scientifically proven activation of the GLP-1 signal pathway
- Synergistic combination - peptides, prebiotics, probiotics, polyphenols and omega-3 for an optimal effect
- Optimised bioavailability - high absorption rate and stable effect
- Sustainable raw material sourcing - responsibly produced ingredients
Scientific evidence: GLP-1 activation by ProGo (9)
The in vitro study ‘Initial Exploration of the In Vitro Activation of GLP-1 and GIP Receptors and Pancreatic Islet Cell Protection by Salmon-Derived Bioactive Peptide’ by Currie et al. 2024, shows that ProGo can significantly increase GLP-1 secretion. In cell models, the peptides of ProGo were able to significantly increase GLP-1 secretion.
The scientific study therefore confirms the biological activity of the peptides contained in ProGo and provides sound evidence for their benefits in nutritional product development.
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Literature:
- Amann-Vesti, B., S. 77 (2006). Klinische Pathophysiologie. Deutschland: Thieme.
- Freissmuth, M., Offermanns, S., Böhm, S. 665 (2024). Pharmakologie und Toxikologie: Von den molekularen Grundlagen zur Pharmakotherapie. Deutschland: Springer Berlin Heidelberg.
- Althoff, P., S. 693 (2003). Diabetologie in Klinik und Praxis. Deutschland: Thieme.
- Metabolic Medicine and Surgery, S. 226. (2014). USA: CRC Press.
- Probiotic Research in Therapeutics: Volume 5: Metabolic Diseases and Gut Bacteria. S. 113 (2022). Singapur: Springer Nature Singapore.
- Comprehensive Natural Products II: Chemistry and Biology, S. 522. (2010). Niederlande: Elsevier Science.
- Natural Products and Human Diseases: Pharmacology, Molecular Targets, and Therapeutic Benefits, S. 517. (2022). Schweiz: Springer International Publishing.
- Studies on Biomarkers and New Targets in Aging Research in Iran: Focus on Turmeric and Curcumin, S. 154. (2021). Deutschland: Springer International Publishing.
- Currie, C.; Bjerknes, C.; Framroze, B. Initial Exploration of the In Vitro Activation of GLP-1 and GIP Receptors and Pancreatic Islet Cell Protection by Salmon-Derived Bioactive Peptides. Mar. Drugs 2024, 22, 490. https://doi.org/10.3390/ md22110490
About the expert
Theresa Gryczka
Sales and Product Manager Nutraceuticals
Expert: Health and Nutrition focused on Nutraceuticals
Theresa has a Master's degree in Nutrition and Health and has been working for IMCD Pharmaceuticals in the Nutraceuticals market segment since 2021. She started as a Junior Sales Manager and now looks after a number of suppliers in addition to her customers. She is also the technical contact person for her sales colleagues.
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