Incretin mimetic

Exendin-4

Exendin-4 is a 39-residue peptide from Gila monster venom that activates the GLP-1 receptor and inspired the drug exenatide.

By The Peptides Codex Editorial TeamReviewed July 10, 2026

Length

39 aa

Class

Incretin mimetic

Function

GLP-1 receptor agonist

Context

Basis for exenatide (approved)

Venom-derived GLP-1 mimetic resistant to DPP-4.

Part of the Metabolic & GLP-1 peptides cluster

Overview

Exendin-4 is a 39-residue peptide from Gila monster venom that activates the GLP-1 receptor and inspired the drug exenatide.

Source & context

Biological / chemical source: Gila monster venom homolog

Primary research or clinical context: Basis for exenatide (approved)

From venom to medicine

Exendin-4’s resistance to DPP-4 cleavage made it a template for incretin mimetic drugs — a famous natural-product-to-pharmacy story in peptide science.

Sequence

One-letter sequence commonly cited for Exendin-4 (educational; isoforms and modifications may differ):

HGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPPS

Helical wheel projection

Residues plotted ~100° apart around an α-helix — clustering of one color reveals an amphipathic face.

Analyze sequences in the playground →

FAQ about Exendin-4

What is Exendin-4?+

Exendin-4 is a 39-residue peptide from Gila monster venom that activates the GLP-1 receptor and inspired the drug exenatide.

Is Exendin-4 an approved medicine?+

Exendin-4: Basis for exenatide (approved). Always follow licensed medical guidance for approved products.

What is the typical length of Exendin-4?+

Exendin-4 is commonly described as approximately 39 amino acids (Incretin mimetic).

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References & further reading

Disclaimer: Educational content only. Not medical advice. Not instructions for human use. Research peptides and unapproved products may be restricted or illegal to market for human consumption in your jurisdiction. Consult qualified professionals and applicable law.

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Cite this: Peptides Codex — Exendin-4 educational profile.

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