Description
Chemical Identity
Dulaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist consisting of a modified GLP-1 analog covalently linked to a modified human IgG4 Fc fragment via a small peptide linker. The total molecular weight is approximately 59,669 Da. The GLP-1 component features amino acid substitutions at positions 8 (Ala to Gly for DPP-IV resistance) and 22 (Gly to Glu for improved potency), while the IgG4 Fc fragment has been engineered to reduce Fc-gamma receptor binding and immune effector function. This fusion protein design enables once-weekly dosing by reducing renal clearance and extending the circulating half-life to approximately 5 days.
Dulaglutide is also known by the following designations: Trulicity and LY2189265.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | GLP-1-Fc fusion protein |
| Molecular Weight | ~59,669 Da |
| CAS Number | 923950-08-7 |
| Half-Life | ~5 days (once-weekly dosing) |
| Research Status | Approved |
Research Overview
Dulaglutide has been investigated in extensive Phase 3 clinical trials for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk reduction. The mechanism of action involves selective activation of the GLP-1 receptor, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing inappropriate glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite. Unlike fatty acid-conjugated GLP-1 agonists, Dulaglutide achieves extended duration through Fc fusion, representing an alternative pharmacokinetic strategy for weekly GLP-1 receptor agonism.
Key areas of published research include:
- AWARD Clinical Program (Type 2 Diabetes): The AWARD (Assessment of Weekly AdministRation of LY2189265 in Diabetes) clinical program encompassed multiple Phase 3 trials demonstrating Dulaglutide’s efficacy in glycemic control. AWARD trials demonstrated HbA1c reductions of 0.8-1.6% depending on dose and comparator, with the 1.5 mg weekly dose consistently demonstrating superiority over multiple active comparators including sitagliptin, exenatide twice-daily, and insulin glargine.
- REWIND Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial: The REWIND trial enrolled 9,901 patients with type 2 diabetes at a broad range of cardiovascular risk levels and demonstrated a 12% reduction in the composite primary endpoint of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) over a median 5.4-year follow-up. Notably, REWIND enrolled a higher proportion of patients without established cardiovascular disease compared to other GLP-1 RA cardiovascular outcomes trials.
- Weight Management Research: While not FDA-approved specifically for weight management (unlike liraglutide and semaglutide), Dulaglutide produces moderate weight loss of approximately 2-4 kg in clinical trials. Dose-response studies have explored higher doses for enhanced weight reduction, though Dulaglutide’s clinical positioning has focused primarily on diabetes and cardiovascular protection.
Dulaglutide is FDA-approved (as Trulicity) for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease or multiple cardiovascular risk factors.
Specifications
All Dulaglutide supplied by Prescott Bio Canada is manufactured to research-grade standards.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Purity | >98% (HPLC) |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Storage (lyophilized) | -20°C, protected from light |
| Storage (reconstituted) | 2-8°C, use within 30 days |
| Solubility | Soluble in bacteriostatic water, sterile water, or normal saline |
Each vial is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting purity, identity, and endotoxin testing.
Research Applications
Dulaglutide is supplied exclusively for in vitro and in vivo laboratory research. Published experimental applications include:
- Investigation of GLP-1 receptor agonism effects on pancreatic beta-cell function and insulin secretion
- Study of Fc fusion protein pharmacokinetics and extended-duration peptide delivery strategies
- Examination of incretin-mediated cardiovascular protection mechanisms and endothelial function
- Research into GLP-1 pathway effects on appetite regulation, gastric emptying, and energy balance
Researchers should consult the primary literature and institutional review protocols before designing experiments with Dulaglutide.
Storage and Handling
Lyophilized powder: Store at -20°C in the original sealed vial, protected from light and moisture. Under these conditions, Dulaglutide maintains stability for up to 24 months.
Reconstituted solution: Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or sterile water to the desired concentration. Store reconstituted Dulaglutide at 2-8°C and use within 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. As a fusion protein, Dulaglutide is sensitive to agitation and shear stress.
Handling precautions: This product is intended for research use only (RUO). Not for human or veterinary diagnostic or therapeutic use. Handle using standard laboratory safety practices including appropriate PPE.