Objective:

To explore the role of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) in the regulation of gut hormone release and its implications for energy intake and glycemia, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

Key Findings:

• CaSR mediates gut hormone secretion in response to L-Trp and L-Phe, with implications for appetite regulation.
• Extracellular Ca2+ enhances the secretion of gut hormones like CCK, GLP-1, and PYY, suggesting a synergistic effect.
• Intraluminal administration of L-Trp or L-Phe increases plasma gut hormone levels and reduces energy intake, indicating potential for dietary interventions.
• CaSR activation has potential implications for obesity and type 2 diabetes management, warranting further investigation.

Interpretation:

The findings suggest that targeting CaSR activity could be a novel approach for managing energy intake and glycemic control through dietary interventions.

Limitations:

• The evidence for CaSR-mediated stimulation of gut hormone release in humans is incomplete, with a need for more targeted studies.
• Studies often involve Ca2+ as part of complex meals, making it difficult to isolate its effects; future research should aim to clarify these interactions.

Conclusion:

The CaSR plays a crucial role in gut hormone regulation, and its activators may offer new strategies for obesity and diabetes management, highlighting the need for further research in this area.