Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor is present on human hepatocytes and has a direct role in decreasing hepatic steatosis in vitro by modulating elements of the insulin signaling pathway

This is the first report that the G protein-coupled receptor GLP-1R is present on human hepatocytes. Furthermore, it appears that exendin-4 has the same beneficial effects in vitro as those seen in our previously published in vivo study in ob/ob mice, directly reducing hepatocyte steatosis. Future use for human nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, either in combination with dietary manipulation or other pharmacotherapy, may be a significant advance in treatment of this common form of liver disease.