Initially, insulin used to treat diabetes came from animals. However, in 1978, scientists developed a new method of producing insulin.
The Evolution of Insulin Production
Early insulin treatments relied on extracting insulin from the pancreases of cattle and pigs. While this method was life-saving for many people with diabetes, it had drawbacks.
Animal-Based Insulin:
- It saved millions of lives.
- It caused allergic reactions in some patients.
The Breakthrough: Genetically Engineered Human Insulin
The first **genetically engineered, synthetic “human” insulin was produced in 1978 using E. coli bacteria**. This innovative approach marked a significant advancement in diabetes treatment.
How Genetically Engineered Insulin is Made:
- Scientists insert the human insulin gene into a plasmid (a small, circular piece of DNA) from bacteria.
- This plasmid is then introduced into E. coli bacteria.
- The bacteria are grown in large cultures, where they multiply and produce insulin.
- The insulin is then extracted and purified for medical use.
This process allows for the mass production of human insulin, eliminating the need for animal sources and minimizing allergic reactions.
