Secretion of GLP-1 but not GIP is potently stimulated by luminal d-Allulose (d-Psicose) in rats

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), an incretin gastrointestinal hormone, is secreted when stimulated by nutrients including metabolizable sugars such as glucose and fructose. d-Allulose (allulose), also known as d-psicose, is a C-3 isomer of d-fructose and a rare sugar with anti-diabetic or anti-obese effects in animal models. In the present study, we examined whether an oral administration of allulose could stimulate GLP-1 secretion in rats, and investigated the underlying mechanisms. Oral, but not intraperitoneal, administration of allulose (0.5–2.0 g/kg body weight) elevated plasma GLP-1 levels for more than 2 h in a dose-dependent manner. The effects of allulose on GLP-1 secretion were higher than that of dextrin, fructose, or glucose. In addition, oral allulose increased total and active GLP-1, but not glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), levels in the portal vein. In anesthetized rats equipped with a portal catheter, luminal (duodenum and ileum) administration of allulose increased portal GLP-1 levels, indicating the luminal effect of allulose. Allulose-induced GLP-1 secretion was abolished in the presence of xanthohumol (a glucose/fructose transport inhibitor), but not in the presence of inhibitors of the sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter 1 or the sweet taste receptor. These results demonstrate a potent and lasting effect of orally administered allulose on GLP-1 secretion in rats, without affecting GIP secretion. The potent and selective GLP-1-releasing effect of allulose holds promise for the prevention and treatment of glucose intolerance through promoting endogenous GLP-1 secretion.