Glucagon-like peptide-1（GLP-1）receptors belong to the class B of G protein coupled-receptors and are expressed in pancreas，lungs，GI tract，kidneys，heart and the central nervous system. During episodes of hyperglycemia activation of GLP-1 receptors located on pancreas islet β-cells facilitates insulin release and increases insulin sensitivity to regulate blood sugar. In the central nervous system，activation of GLP-1 receptors produces neuroprotection and analge?sia. In this mini-review，we have summarized our recent work：1）identification of microglial GLP-1 receptor/IL-10/ β-endorphin pathway in the spinal cord；2）discovery of the mechanisms of activation of GLP-1 receptors by which analgesic Lamiophlomis rotata and its effective ingredients iridoid glycosides produce antinociception. Our work highlight that spinal microglial GLP-1 receptor might be a human-demonstrated target for the treatment of chronic pain.