25 years developing GLP-1 mimetics for diabetes and metabolic diseases – the future is still very bright.
Richard Pittner, PhD, VP of Discovery Biology, Escient Pharmaceuticals Inc.
GLP-1 was identified as the first incretin, released post-prandially to stimulate a decrease in blood glucose levels. Unlike administered insulin or other oral agents, GLP-1 does not cause hypoglycemia. Its insulin-releasing effect is glucose-dependent, alongside its ability to delay post-prandial glucose excursion – making it a very attractive target for pharmaceutical development. Byetta (Exendin-4), the first potent and long-lasting GLP-1 mimetic, paved the way for demonstrating the therapeutic value of GLP-1 agonism. Since Byetta’s approval in 2005, a number of GLP-1 agonists are now available such as Liraglutide (Victoza) and Dulaglutide (Trulicity), with more favorable efficacy and delivery options. The differentiation requirement is now set very high for the next generation of therapeutics. This presentation will focus on the development of the latest GLP-1 mimetics and GLP-1/GIP dual agonists, with unparalleled efficacy and ease of delivery.
