Thousands of years ago, it was good to have 'thriftiness' genes that enabled the body to preserve energy (calories) during cold winters. We are still equipped with these genes, but now they are really working against us by trying to preserve a body weight 'setpoint' that is too high in today's environment. This has caused obesity to spread epidemically throughout the world, driving cardio-metabolic disease (type 2 diabetes and cardio-vascular disease) to become the #1 killer globally. The race for an effective way to treat these diseases started in the 1990's with some important results for the GLP-1 hormone when given to animals and humans.
Follow “The next really good idea”, the last episode of the Novo Nordisk Foundation’s 2022 Advent Calendar “The Story of GLP-1”.”
00:00:02 - Genetic predisposition and the obesity epidemic
00:00:23 - Introduction to the worldwide diabetes and obesity crisis
00:00:44 - Early challenges in diabetes therapy and survival rates
00:01:20 - Hope for GLP-1 as a new standard for diabetes medication
00:01:47 - GLP-1’s effect on appetite and weight loss in rats and humans
00:03:10 - Persuading colleagues and overcoming skepticism
00:04:00 - Addressing the stigma and misconceptions about obesity
00:05:30 - Early studies and the approval of long-acting GLP-1 for diabetes
00:06:00 - Pancreatic inflammation and cancer concerns
00:06:50 - Legal challenges and persistence in the face of adversity
00:07:50 - FDA’s thorough review and reaffirmation of GLP-1 safety
00:08:40 - Approval of GLP-1 for weight management in 2014
00:09:00 - Unexpected cardiovascular benefits of GLP-1 drugs
00:10:10 - Presentation of cardiovascular findings at a major diabetes conference
00:10:50 - Emotional reaction to the breakthrough
00:11:10 - Ongoing research into GLP-1’s potential neuroprotective effects
00:11:50 - The importance of nurturing innovation and listening to diverse ideas