Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require regular insulin injections to maintain good blood glucose levels and overall diabetes control. They need to inject manufactured insulin daily, sometimes several times a day, as they are unable to regulate their blood glucose control without it. Access to this hormone becomes crucial. The time of injecting must be scheduled in conjunction with mealtimes and exercise, as blood glucose levels can change during food consumption, monthly cycles for women, exercise and even in stressful situations. A recent study conducted at Zhejiang University, China, explores using an insulin system trailed on animal models.

‘Smart insulin’ is a type of insulin that aims to improve the quality of life for people with type 1 diabetes who use insulin injections.

This insulin could allow for less frequent injections while still maintaining good blood glucose control. The study discovered that administering a single subcutaneous injection enabled the maintenance of good blood glucose control in diabetic mice and minipigs for a week.

The development of smart insulin would revolutionise how subcutaneous insulin is used. Giving the user the ability to maintain effective control, for up to a week and potentially reducing anxiety related to maintaining optimal blood glucose levels. However, this system has yet to be tested on humans so its full potential in human studies is yet to be known.

As someone who used to inject insulin daily, I was both amazed and sceptical about the capabilities of smart insulin. I wondered about the limitations that might occur during the study and how it would affect the overall blood glucose control in these animal models. To understand this further, we must first look at how this smart insulin model functions.

So, how does ‘Smart Insulin’ work?

It is a modified form of insulin that utilises gluconic acid to form a complex with a polymer through strong electrostatic attraction. This unique mechanism of action allows insulin to be trapped in the polymer, which effectively blocks its signalling function.

As a result, a week’s worth of insulin can be administered via a single injection without the risk of overdose. It is important to consider that the chemical structure of glucose and gluconic acid are quite similar, which is a crucial aspect of the response to glucose within the system. The two molecules can bind in a similar way, which enables smart insulin to function efficiently and effectively. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize diabetes management and improve the quality of life for millions of people living with this chronic condition.

Taking a closer look

When glucose blinds with insulin polymer complexes, it can get rid of some of the bound insulin forming its own chemical bonds with the polymer. The binding of glucose also affects the electrostatic attraction, promoting further insulin release. When glucose binds to the polymer this triggers the release of insulin. According to the study, the amount of glucose in the bloodstream allows the system to determine insulin release.

Between meals, when blood glucose is lower, smaller amounts of insulin are released. This insulin is also known as basal insulin, which is essential for maintaining the regulation of blood glucose levels at a baseline.

 After meals, blood glucose levels tend to increase rapidly, which can be regulated with the help of smart insulin. It can release a higher amount of insulin in response to the increased glucose levels, thereby reducing insulin spikes. This allows the body to regulate the excess glucose produced and prevent high blood glucose levels (hyperglycaemia).

Constant high blood glucose levels can cause irreversible damage to a diabetic on both a macrovascular and microvascular level. This can lead to damage to the nerves, hands and feet, and eyesight and put an individual at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Therefore, the system works by copying the body’s natural process of releasing insulin in response to glucose. The polymer complex can form a reservoir when injected, allowing for a slower release of insulin when blood glucose levels increase.

Animal Models no Human clinical trials yet!

The study utilised five mice and minipigs to test the smart insulin. Minipigs have a similar physiology to humans, making them ideal test subjects. The three minipigs used in the study were given different doses of the smart insulin. The minipig that received the lower dose showed better results with tighter blood glucose levels and sustained healthy levels after meals. The other two minipigs showed reduced but still higher blood glucose levels. However, their regulation was in the normal range and tighter than normal daily injections with no occurrence of low blood glucose levels (hypoglycaemia). The study also noted that the minipig with better glucose control started with lower blood glucose level control. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the potential breakthrough of ‘Smart Insulin’ is an exciting prospect for individuals managing Type 1 diabetes. While the recent study at Zhejiang University has shown promising results in animal models, the journey from laboratories to real-world applications is a complex one. As someone who has experienced the daily routine of insulin injections, I find the concept of ‘Smart Insulin’ both fascinating and hopeful.

The innovative technology’s ability to mimic the body’s natural insulin release offers a glimpse into a future where diabetes management becomes more streamlined and less burdensome. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the current study, including the small sample size and the need for further research before transitioning to human clinical trials.

As we eagerly await more developments in the field of ‘Smart Insulin,’ I remain optimistic about its potential impact on improving the quality of life for millions of individuals living with Type 1 diabetes. The journey to regulatory approval and real-world application may be challenging, but the prospect of a more effective and patient-friendly insulin solution is undoubtedly worth the wait.

Thank you for joining me in exploring this innovative avenue in diabetes research. I look forward to sharing more updates on ‘Smart Insulin’ as it progresses through the stages of development. Stay tuned for the latest in diabetes management and the continuous quest for advancements that enhance the lives of those with chronic conditions.

Thanks for stopping by Amina x