A Comprehensive Review of the Evolution of Insulin Development and Its Delivery Method

Abstract

The year 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the momentous discovery of insulin. Through years of research and discovery, insulin has evolved from poorly defined crude extracts of animal pancreas to recombinant human insulin and analogues that can be prescribed and administered with high accuracy and efficacy. However, there are still many challenges ahead in clinical settings, particularly with respect to maintaining optimal glycemic control whilst minimizing the treatment-related side effects of hypoglycemia and weight gain. In this review, the chronology of the development of rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting insulin analogues, as well as mixtures and concentrated formulations that offer the potential to meet this challenge, are summarized. In addition, we also summarize the latest advancements in insulin delivery methods, along with advancement to clinical trials. This review provides insights on the development of insulin treatment for diabetes mellitus that may be useful for clinicians in meeting the needs of their individual patients. However, it is important to note that as of now, none of the new technologies mentioned have superseded the existing method of subcutaneous administration of insulin.

Recent Advancement of Medical Patch for Transdermal Drug Delivery

“…To date, several new techniques have been reported, including the use of ionic liquids, choline bicarbonate and geranic acid (CAGE), liposome, and nanomaterials to deliver insulin [96][97][98][99][100]. Transdermal patches for insulin delivery can provide a convenient and discreet alternative to traditional methods of insulin delivery, such as injections and insulin pumps [101]. The patches are typically applied to the skin on the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh and are designed to release a consistent dose of insulin over a specific period of time.…”

An Artificial Insulin Receptor that Self-assembles and Works on a Gold Surface

“…1 Usually, blood glucose levels are regulated by insulin, an important peptide hormone secreted by pancreatic B-cells. 2,3 However, to date, no cure for diabetes has been developed; thus, insulin therapy for the management of diabetes by controlling blood glucose levels remains the main treatment to ensure a patient's quality of life. Therefore, it is important to know the status of both glucose and insulin in the blood for the treatment of diabetes.…”

What Is the Role of Basal Weekly Insulin in Clinical Practice? The State of the Art

“…In addition, insulin non-adherence was associated with several injection-related factors, such as number of injections, dose calculation and injection technique, interference with daily activities and embarrassment [13,14]. In this sense, to overcome these problems, the research has moved towards developing basal insulin with longer than twenty-four hours of action and a flatter insulin profile [15].…”