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MEDTECH Could plant-based, orally administered insulin revolutionize the treatment of diabetes worldwide by providing a more cost-effective, convenient, and secure option than conventional insulin injections?
Exciting advancements in insulin delivery methods are emerging from the world of dentistry. Groundbreaking research has led to the development of a plant-based, oral insulin, opening a new chapter in diabetes treatment.
Key Points:
- Henry Daniell from the School of Dental Medicine has developed a plant-based, oral insulin delivery method that potentially surpasses current diabetes treatments by reducing hypoglycemia risk.
- The oral insulin, derived from lettuce plants, contains all three peptides found in natural insulin, providing a response similar to naturally secreted insulin.
- Clinical trials on diabetic mice showed effective blood sugar regulation within 15 minutes of ingestion, significantly reducing instances of hypoglycemia compared to traditional insulin injections.
- The plant-based production method could eliminate the need for costly lab equipment and offer a room temperature, shelf-stable product, making it a potential game-changer for global diabetes treatment accessibility.
Additional Points:
- Future research plans involve testing the plant-based insulin on canine and human subjects.
- The study received funding support from the National Institutes of Health, United States, and a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community and Economic Development.
- It should be noted that Henry Daniell holds patents in this field.
Conclusion:
- The development of a plant-based, oral insulin delivery system demonstrates a promising breakthrough in diabetes treatment. This innovative approach could offer a safer, more effective, and globally accessible alternative to traditional insulin injections.
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“Our insulin, given orally, has all three proteins and is delivered right to the liver. It works just like natural insulin, which minimizes the risk of hypoglycemia.”
Henry Daniell, Vice Chair and W.D. Miller Professor in the Department of Basic & Translational Sciences at Penn’s School of Dental Medicine
