ACQ2 by Acquired The Scientific Journey Behind Ozempic (with Lotte Bjerre Knudsen, Novo Nordisk's Chief Scientific Advisor)
38 snips
Mar 6, 2024 Lotte Bjerre Knudsen, Novo Nordisk’s Chief Scientific Advisor, shares her remarkable journey in discovering semaglutide, the molecule behind Ozempic. She reveals the initial skepticism faced in the 90s and her steadfast belief in its potential for weight loss, which was a goal from the start. Lotte discusses the complex mechanisms of GLP-1 agents, how they impact appetite and weight management, and the innovative pharmaceutical testing processes enhancing drug effectiveness. Her insights shed light on the collaborative spirit necessary in biomedical science.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Unlikely Start
- Lotte Bjerre Knudsen initially got rejected by Novo Nordisk before university.
- She later joined the company without applying after completing her thesis there.
From Enzymes to Medicine
- Starting in Novozymes' enzyme research division, Lotte Bjerre Knudsen worked on enzymes for laundry detergents.
- She aimed to create impactful products rather than pursue academic research.
Laundry Explosions
- Lotte Bjerre Knudsen's enzyme research involved enhancing laundry detergent brightness using cellulase.
- An attempt to create a bleach-like enzyme resulted in a refrigerator explosion and a building smelling of rotten eggs.