Scientists in Taiwan reported success in early tests of oral insulin in diabetic rats. The study showed the insulin pill combination reached the rats' bloodstream and lowered their blood glucose levels.
Insulin is a pure protein and therefore must be protected from the digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine. Scientists found that chitosan, a chemical derived from the shells of shrimp, crabs, and lobsters allowed insulin to reach the blood stream without degradation. Chitosan encapsulation provided a protective barrier for the insulin while traveling through the stomach and small intestine.
An oral drug would be the most convenient way of delivering insulin. No more needles, no syringe - brought to you by chitosan! It almost rhymes -- but nonetheless, it's music to my ears.
1. That's great, but clearly will only be useful for folks without shellfish allergies, right?
Posted at 8:46AM on Jan 17th 2007 by Charity Froggenhall