A stomach and intestinal hormone called “Incretin” is secreted in response to a meal to help the body metabolize sugar (among other things). Recent drug therapies have been developed to manipulate this hormone in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Either by inhibiting Incretin’s breakdown (dpp4 inhibition, Januvia/Sitagliptan et al.) or stimulating its action (Byetta/Exanitide), insulin secretion can be stimulated or glucagon secretion can be attenuated in response to a glucose load. A recent paper looked at a novel effect that Incretins may have on bone health. While still inconclusive, the authors of this study (see link) postulate that Incretins may have a beneficial effect on bone formation and fracture risk. http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/34/11/2474.abstract
