This gene encodes a 7-transmembrane protein that functions as a receptor for glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) hormone, which stimulates glucose-induced insulin secretion. This receptor, which functions at the cell surface, becomes internalized in response to GLP-1 and GLP-1 analogs, and it plays an important role in the signaling cascades leading to insulin secretion. It also displays neuroprotective effects in animal models. Polymorphisms in this gene are associated with diabetes. The protein is an important drug target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and stroke. Alternative splicing of this gene results in multiple transcript variants.