Insulinotropic effects, gastric emptying delaying and reduction of endogenous glucose production by inhibiting glucagon secretion; reduction in blood pressure; improvement in endothelial dysfunction; extra-pancreatic cytoprotective properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic (e.g., against diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy. This evidence concerns the gene GCG and diabetic kidney disease.