Researchers at the University of British Columbia have made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of diabetes management. More than 11 million Canadians are currently living with diabetes or prediabetes, and many of them require insulin to control their blood sugar levels. Typically, insulin is administered through injections, but Dr. Shyh-Dar Li and his team at UBC have developed a new method – oral insulin drops that can be placed under the tongue.
According to Dr. Li, the oral drops contain a unique cell-penetrating peptide that helps the insulin reach the bloodstream effectively. This peptide is the key to the success of the new product, as it prevents the insulin from getting stuck in the lining of the mouth. Dr. Li described the discovery of this peptide as a “game changer” for diabetes management.
The new product is designed to be user-friendly, with most patients likely only needing one or two drops to regulate their blood glucose levels. However, some patients may require additional drops based on their individual needs. While people without diabetes naturally produce insulin in their pancreas to regulate glucose levels, those with diabetes need to supplement their insulin from an external source.
Dr. Li’s team has conducted pre-clinical trials that have shown the oral drops work as quickly as traditional insulin injections. They are now focused on scaling up production to create larger, clinical-grade doses of the insulin drops. The team is also conducting further tests to ensure the safety and efficacy of the product before moving on to human trials in two years.
If all goes well, Dr. Li hopes that the oral insulin drops will be available to the public within five years. He has already received positive feedback from people with diabetes who are excited about the potential of this new treatment option. The team is dedicated to improving the quality of life for diabetes patients and providing them with a more convenient and effective way to manage their condition.
