The incretin effect amplifies insulin secretion under elevated glucose concentrations. The name of GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide; tropic means as much as 'to increase secretion of') refers to this trait of the incretins.

2e) This glucose-dependence of the incretin effect is tremendously beneficial. Why?

Answer

The incretin effect is defined as the increased stimulation of insulin secretion elicited by oral as compared with intravenous administration of glucose under similar plasma glucose levels. Incretins stimulate β-cell proliferation and differentiation, recruit more β-cells to the secretory process, increase insulin biosynthesis, improve insulin content, and have antiapoptotic effects.In addition to the proven glucose-lowering efficacy, they promote weight loss (or are weight neutral) by slowing gastric emptying and inducing satiety, inhibit glucagon secretion with maintenance of counterregulatory mechanisms, and exhibit cardiovascular benefits, while having a low risk profile.