Smart Insulin Breakthrough Promises Better Diabetes Management

Why in the news?

Researchers developed “smart” insulin that responds to blood sugar fluctuations, potentially revolutionising diabetes treatment. This advancement could significantly improve the lives of millions managing the condition.

Breakthrough in Diabetes Treatment:

  • Global Impact of Diabetes: Over 500 million people are affected by diabetes, causing nearly 7 million deaths annually. The prevalence of this condition has increased dramatically worldwide.
  • “Smart” Insulin Development: Researchers have developed a revolutionary “smart” insulin that responds in real-time to changes in blood sugar levels, described as the “holy grail” of diabetes treatments. This breakthrough was published in the journal Nature.

Mechanism and Future Trials:

  • Innovative Insulin Design: The new insulin, named NNC2215, features a modified molecule with an “on-and-off switch.” It activates based on blood glucose levels, with glucosides maintaining inactivity until glucose rises.
  • Research Findings: Effective in lowering blood glucose in animal studies, human trials are anticipated. Current challenges include the insulin’s rapid activation and the need for gradual glucose responses, which scientists aim to refine.

About Diabetes:

  • Definition: A Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) where the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or the body can’t use it effectively.

Types of Diabetes:

  • Type 1 Diabetes:
  • Known as juvenile diabetes, primarily affects children and adolescents (ages 14-16).
  • Characterised by insufficient insulin production.
  • Type 2 Diabetes:
  • Occurs when the body becomes less effective at using insulin.
  • Can develop at any age,most common in middle-aged and older adults.
  • Gestational Diabetes:
  • Occurs during pregnancy; the body becomes less sensitive to insulin.
  • Usually resolves after childbirth.
  • Current Management: Both types are managed through synthetic insulin, posing risks of life-threatening low blood sugar levels and requiring constant monitoring and dosage adjustments.

Impact and Factors:

  • Affected Organs: Kidney, heart, blood vessels, nervous system, and eyes (retina).
  • Contributing Factors: Unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, alcohol use, obesity, and tobacco use.
  • Type 1 Diabetes Prevalence:
  • India has the highest number of children with type 1 diabetes globally.
  • Approximately 90,000 to 100,000 children under 14 are affected.
  • Type 1 accounts for only 2% of diabetes hospital cases but is being diagnosed more frequently.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express,Hindustan Times