Latest international research- A modified insulin reduces the risk of hypoglycemia in diabetics

On October 17, a notable paper published in the renowned scientific journal “Nature” has unveiled significant advancements in diabetes management. Researchers have demonstrated a novel modified insulin that is sensitive to glucose levels, offering a promising solution for preventing sudden drops in blood sugar and providing greater flexibility for insulin-dependent diabetes patients.

In the study, it was noted that many individuals with diabetes require supplementary insulin injections to maintain stable blood sugar levels. However, the unpredictability of glucose fluctuations makes it challenging to determine the appropriate dosage, and even a slight overdose can potentially lead to life-threatening hypoglycemia.

Dr. Rita Slaaby, the lead author and a researcher at a Danish pharmaceutical company, along with her colleagues, introduced this innovative insulin formulation. This modified insulin, known as NNC2215, contains a “switch” that activates based on blood glucose levels. At elevated glucose concentrations, the switch is turned on, enhancing insulin’s ability to remove glucose from the bloodstream. Conversely, when glucose levels drop, the switch turns off, preventing further glucose absorption.

Laboratory experiments showed that as glucose concentration increased from 3mM to 20mM, which mirrors the fluctuations experienced by diabetes patients, the binding affinity of NNC2215 to its receptors increased by 3.2 times. This finding highlights its potential to respond effectively to changes in blood sugar levels.

Further tests conducted on diabetic models in rats and pigs confirmed that NNC2215 was as effective in reducing blood sugar as human insulin. The enhanced glucose sensitivity of this modified insulin also appeared to protect the animals from hypoglycemic episodes.

Experts contributing to a “News and Views” article in the same issue of “Nature” suggested that this revamped insulin has the potential to prevent sudden drops in blood sugar, which can severely impact diabetes patients, especially during sleep. This innovative approach could pave the way for improved management of both long-term and short-term complications related to diabetes.