The gastrointestinal hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is mainly secreted after meals, enhances glucose-stimulated insulin release and inhibits food intake. The response of circulating active GLP-1 concentrations after a standard meal, as well as after an oral glucose load, has been reported to be reduced in type 2 diabetic patients in comparison with healthy subjects. Available data suggest that GLP-1 plays a relevant role in the regulation of postprandial glucose metabolism in physiologic conditions. Furthermore, the impairment of GLP-1 secretion after meals could contribute to the pathogenesis of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes. Several new drugs act through the GLP-1 signaling system to stimulate insulin release and regulate blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes.

We invite investigators to contribute original research articles as well as review articles that will stimulate the continuing efforts to understand the physiologic role, biologic action, and therapeutic properties of incretins and incretin-based therapies. Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Recent developments in physiology of GLP-1
• Biology of GLP-1 recent development at the experimental level
• Advances in therapeutic potential of GLP-1 agents
• Effects of incretin-based therapies in delaying/halting the progression of diabetes
• Potential beneficial/detrimental actions on the cardiovascular system (or others)
• Potential beneficial/detrimental effect on bone metabolism
• Potential beneficial/detrimental effect on brain metabolism/function

Considering the aims of the journal, experimental studies will be particularly welcome, as well as mechanistic studies exploring special aspects of GLP-1-related therapies, with particular regard to the cardiovascular system and to microvascular complications of diabetes. Novel data on DPP-4 inhibition, with a special focus on the possible effects of DPP-4 other than GLP-1 and GIP degradation, would also be welcome.

Before submission authors should carefully read over the journal's Author Guidelines, which are located at http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jdr/guidelines/. Prospective authors should submit an electronic copy of their complete manuscript through the journal Manuscript Tracking System at http://mts.hindawi.com/ according to the following timetable: