Present role of the hormones produced in the gastrointestinal tract is shown in this short overview. Selected actual information on glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and somatostatin is presented as an example in development of the knowledge of pathophysiology and of the possibilities in their clinical use. It is evident that hormones originating from the gastrointestinal tract are perspective not only in relationship to the explanation of pathophysiology of different diseases but they may be used more for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

        Key words: Hormones - Gastrointestinal tract - Pathophysiology - Diagnostics - Therapy