OBJECTIVE: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and -2 (GLP-2) are gut-derived hormones used in the treatment of diabetes type-2 and short bowel syndrome, respectively. GLP-1 attenuates insulin resistance and GLP-2 reduces enterocyte apoptosis and enhances crypt cell proliferation in the small intestine. In addition, both hormones have vasoactive effects and may be useful in situations with impaired microcirculation. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of the potential effects of GLP-1 and GLP-2 on microcirculation.

METHODS: A systematic search was performed independently by two authors in the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, Scopus, and Web of Science.

RESULTS: Of 1111 screened papers, 20 studies were included in this review: 16 studies in animals, three in humans, and one in humans and rats.

CONCLUSION: The studies were few and heterogeneous and had a high risk of bias. However, it seems that GLP-1 regulates the pancreatic, skeletal, and cardiac muscle flow, indicating a role in the glucose homeostasis, while GLP-2 acts primarily in the regulation of the microcirculation of the mid-intestine. These findings may be useful in gastrointestinal surgery and in situations with impaired microcirculation of the gut. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.