Is Oral Insulin Coming Soon?

Filed in archive Developments , Research , Treatment on April 24, 2008

Previous researches delved into the possibility of an oral insulin. Though most awaited by patients and medical professionals alike, it just is not here yet. It seems there are too many obstacles that havn't been overcomed yet.


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Now, researchers in Texas are reporting that they have found a gel-like material - polymer hydrogel - that may be able to speed up the development of oral insulin.

In the report, Nicholas A. Peppas and colleagues point out acid in the stomach destroys insulin, preventing its administration by mouth. Many different research groups worldwide are searching for ways to overcome that obstacle. However, an ideal material for safe, effective oral delivery remains elusive.

The new study describes a promising candidate in the form of a polymer hydrogel that responds to changes in pH levels. This hydrogel has been modified by the addition of wheat germ agglutinin tethers, or anchors, that allow it to interact with the lining of the upper small intestine. In laboratory tests, the gel-like substance containing insulin expands in the acidic environment of the stomach and protects the drug from destruction by stomach acids.

You gotta agree that this could be something that may deliver the breakthrough of the much-awaited oral insulin.

Imagine just popping a pill instead of insulin injection? That would really be the day!

Find more details from Science Daily.