The Curious Clinicians
103 - Oral Argument
Jan 8, 2025
Why isn't insulin administered orally? This intriguing discussion traces the challenges and history of insulin since the 1920s. Discover the biological hurdles of absorption and how digestive enzymes complicate oral administration. Learn about advancements like semaglutide that enhance drug delivery. Dive into innovative research inspired by cephalopods, which explores futuristic drug delivery methods that could revolutionize treatments.
26:40
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Quick takeaways
- Insulin's peptide nature and large size render it unsuitable for oral administration due to digestion and absorption challenges.
- Innovative research into drug delivery methods, like permeation enhancers and novel propulsion systems, holds promise for future oral insulin solutions.
Deep dives
The Historical Context of Insulin Discovery
Insulin was discovered in 1922 by Frederick Banting and Charles Best, marking a significant advancement in diabetes treatment. Their initial experiments involved injecting a pancreatic extract into a young patient, resulting in a notable reduction in blood glucose levels. This discovery was groundbreaking, as it significantly extended the life expectancy of diabetes patients at the time, who previously had very limited survival chances. The rapid pace at which the discovery progressed, culminating in a Nobel Prize within two years, underscores the impact of this life-saving hormone.
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