A Look Into the Next Century After 100 Years of Insulin

Cureus. 2022 Oct 10;14(10):e30133. doi: 10.7759/cureus.30133. eCollection 2022 Oct.

Abstract

Being diagnosed with diabetes can be challenging, particularly if we do not know a similar individual with the same disease. A person's life may suddenly change and he/she may not be aware of the possibilities or treatment options available or the questions that need to be asked; hence, instead of looking for assistance, many people hide their diabetic condition from others. But due to innovative devices, individuals no longer need to be concerned. Various gadgets today help provision insulin via a subcutaneous route, for example, an insulin pen, pump, vial, or syringe. Despite being the most familiar way to provide insulin, subcutaneous insulin delivery is linked to needle pain, injection anxiety, lipodystrophy, compliance issues, and peripheral hyperinsulinemia; thus, there is a need for an insulin delivery system that is both less invasive and more biological. The discovery of insulin and its uses are linked to the beginning of diabetes treatment. Initially, the delivery of insulin was accomplished using giant, heavy, reusable syringes equipped with plungers, barrels, and wide-bore needles. To prepare these syringes and needles for reuse, these were boiled. The development of insulin syringes, which are presently in use and have revolutionized healthcare, resulted from manufacturers' continued efforts and technological innovations. Injections of insulin may become obsolete if research from the University of Alberta is successful. Researchers from the University of Alberta claim that insulin-producing cells developed from stem cells are secure for transplantation to wean diabetes patients from injectable insulin permanently. In a significant mice experiment, experts demonstrated the role of the inceptor (insulin inhibitory receptor), which protects the beta cells from insulin pathway activation. Insulin resistance in diabetes may be exacerbated by the inceptor's ability to block insulin signaling. Technologies known as "smart insulin" (glucose-responsive insulin) deliver insulin according to the patient's glycemic condition without needing additional monitoring by the patient or the physician in charge. The review of insulin administration devices and several cutting-edge insulin-related ideas are the main topics of this article.

Keywords: inceptor; insulin signaling; intelligent capsules; jet injectors; smart insulin.

Publication types

  • Review