Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) is an enzyme in your body that helps regulate blood sugar levels. It works by breaking down certain hormones called incretins, which stimulate your pancreas to release insulin after eating. Insulin is the hormone that lowers blood sugar. When DPP-4 activity is high, it reduces incretin levels, leading to less insulin release and higher blood sugar. That’s why medications called DPP-4 inhibitors are used to treat type 2 diabetes: they block DPP-4, boost incretin levels, and help control blood sugar more effectively.