10 Nov 2023
Every year on November 14th, we commemorate World Diabetes Day, a time to highlight the progress made in diabetes treatment and research while also drawing attention to the ongoing challenges. At Lambda Therapeutic Research, we are committed to improving diabetes treatment through our clinical research projects. Our extensive experience overseeing diabetes-focused clinical trials allows us to make significant contributions to the development of cutting-edge treatments for people with diabetes.
Understanding the Diabetes Challenge:
Diabetes is a pervasive chronic condition that affects multiple systems within the body, including the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. It is associated with severe complications, such as blindness, pregnancy-related issues, stroke, kidney failure, heart failure, limb amputation, and an increased risk of severe COVID-19-related illness and mortality.
Study Design:
There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, accounting for less than 5% of cases, is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes, accounting for over 95% of cases, is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels and is often linked to risk factors such as family history, obesity, insufficient physical activity, and an unhealthy diet. While preventive measures can be effective in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, it is important to note that type 1 diabetes is not preventable through lifestyle modifications.
Researchers are working on developing new treatments, prevention strategies, and cures for diabetes, investigating causes, processes, medications, technologies, biomarkers, and outcomes. They are also collaborating to exchange resources, best practices, and expertise across disciplines, industries, and geographical areas.
Market Players:
Pharmaceutical companies engaged in the research and development of innovative diabetic medications and devices are the primary participants when it comes to the latest advancements in diabetes diagnosis and treatment. Some of the prominent players include:
- AstraZeneca plc, a British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical company has developed Tirzepatide, a once-weekly injection that mimics two hormones that regulate blood sugar, appetite, and body weight. Tirzepatide was approved by the FDA in December 2022 for adults with type 2 diabetes. It has been shown to improve blood sugar control, reduce body weight, and lower the risk of heart and kidney problems in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Eli Lilly and Company, an American pharmaceutical company that has developed Teplizumab, the first immune therapy for type 1 diabetes, was approved by the FDA in June 2022. A monoclonal antibody that targets the immune cells that attack the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. It can delay the onset of type 1 diabetes by an average of two years in people who are at high risk of developing the disease, such as relatives of people with type 1 diabetes.
- Peptron, a South Korean biotechnology company has developed a glucose laser device that can measure blood glucose levels without the need for finger pricks. The device uses a laser that shines onto the skin and measures the amount of glucose in the blood using spectroscopy, a technique that analyzes how matter reacts with light. The device is noninvasive, painless, and accurate, and could potentially replace the conventional glucometers that require blood samples. The glucose laser device is still in the research stage and has not been approved for clinical use yet. According to the researchers, they hope to have a prototype ready for testing by the end of 2023.
- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, a Japanese multinational pharmaceutical company has a collaboration with Peptron to develop and commercialize the glucose laser device.
- Novo Nordisk A/S, a Danish multinational pharmaceutical company that is the world’s leading producer of different types of insulin and other diabetes drugs, such as NovoNorm®, repaglinide; Rybelsus®, oral semaglutide; Victoza®, liraglutide; Ozempic®, semaglutide
- Sanofi S.A., is a French multinational pharmaceutical company that has a strong portfolio of diabetes drugs, such as Lantus, Toujeo, and Soliqua.
- There are other options for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) that are already in the market, such as the FreeStyle Libre system and the Medtronic Guardian Sensor 3. These devices use a small sensor that is inserted under the skin and measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. They can provide real-time glucose readings, trends, and alerts on a reader or a smartphone app. They can also help reduce the need for finger pricks, although some calibration may still be required.
- Scientists have discovered a new pathway to treat type 2 diabetes by targeting the liver. They found that fat in the liver increases the release of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which inhibits the activity of nerves that communicate with the brain and other tissues. This leads to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. By blocking the enzyme that produces GABA in the liver, they were able to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in animal models of obesity and diabetes.
Lambda: Accelerating Diabetes Research
Our research boasts an outstanding track record, delivering life-changing breakthroughs that enhance the quality of life for people with diabetes, making their lives easier, healthier, and longer. LTR has extensive experience in conducting clinical trials focusing on diabetes and blood glucose responses. We’ve explored studies, spanning the impact of dietary choices on post-prandial glucose to the effects of plant-based ingredients and specific fibers and flours on blood glucose and insulin responses as well as late-phase clinical trials for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Our studies have delved into both healthy individuals and those affected by diabetes, contributing to a deeper understanding of this condition.
World Diabetes Day: Empowering Access to Diabetes Care
The theme for World Diabetes Day from 2021 to 2023 is “Access to Diabetes Care.” In 2023, the campaign focus is on the importance of accelerating diabetes research to find innovative solutions for the diabetes epidemic. The campaign showcases some of the cutting-edge research projects and initiatives that are making a difference in the field of diabetes. On World Diabetes Day, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world of diabetes care. Our expertise equips us to address the complex and multifaceted nature of diabetes, accelerating research to bring new and innovative solutions to patients worldwide. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against diabetes. Let’s accelerate diabetes research and act for a healthier future.
