In 1984, Dr. Daniel Drucker, an endocrinologist from the University of Toronto, made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of diabetes treatment. He identified a hormone called glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) in the human gut, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and suppressing appetite. This discovery laid the foundation for the development of popular diabetes drugs like Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Wegovy.
Drucker’s initial research aimed to understand the natural functions of GLP-1, with a focus on developing treatments for diabetes. Little did he know the tremendous impact his work would have in clinical settings worldwide. As a physician, Drucker is thrilled to see the significant clinical impact that GLP-1 drugs have had.
However, there was a challenge in using GLP-1 as a drug for diabetes treatment. The hormone quickly disappears from the body, making it difficult to develop effective medications. To overcome this, Drucker turned to the Gila monster, a fascinating reptile native to the southern United States. Gila monsters possess unique metabolic adaptations that allow them to survive extended periods without food while maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Drucker’s team worked with a professional reptile handler to obtain Gila monster venom for their research. They discovered that the venom contained a hormone called Exendin-4, which shares structural similarities with human GLP-1. Unlike GLP-1, Exendin-4 doesn’t break down quickly, making it an ideal candidate for diabetes medication.
The Gila monster hormone was synthesized into a pharmaceutical drug called Exenatide, patented by biochemist Dr. John Eng. This became the first approved GLP-1 treatment for type 2 diabetes worldwide. Subsequently, even longer-lasting GLP-based drugs like Ozempic emerged, mimicking the effects of GLP-1 to lower blood sugar and suppress appetite.
Drucker believes that drugs like Ozempic are valuable tools for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes. He has collaborated with Novo Nordisk to provide guidance on the drug’s development. Despite not receiving royalties, Drucker takes pride in the significant contributions his research has made to the field.
Canada has played a significant role in diabetes treatment throughout history. The discovery of insulin in 1921 by scientists at the University of Toronto and Drucker’s work on GLP-1 drugs have been crucial milestones. These achievements have put Canada at the forefront of diabetes research and treatment.
Drucker’s research has earned him numerous awards and recognition in the field, including the Wolf Prize, the Canada Gairdner International Award, and induction into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame. He acknowledges that the discovery of GLP-1-based drugs was a collective effort involving countless scientists who built upon his initial findings.
In recent years, advancements in medication development have continued, with drugs like Tirzepatide showing promise for diabetes and weight loss. Drucker believes that these innovations will revolutionize how we improve the health of individuals with obesity in the coming years.
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