Oral GLP-1, GLP-1 Analogues and Combined PYY and GLP-1 for Type 2 Diabetes

Many experts believe that the future of Type 2 diabetes treatment lies with the various analogs of GLP-1(Glucagon-Like Peptide) that are being developed. GLP-1 is a natural peptide hormone involved in controlling blood sugar levels.

In June 2008, Novo Nordisk and Emisphere entered into a development and licensing agreement to develop and commercialize oral formulations of Novo Nordisk's proprietary GLP-1 analogs, using the Eligen^® Technology. In January 2010, Novo Nordisk initiated its first Phase I clinical trial with a long-acting oral GLP-1 analogue (NN9924). The aim of this trial, which is being conducted in the UK, is to investigate the safety, tolerability and bioavailability of this analog in healthy volunteers. They anticipate enrolling 155 individuals and trial results are expected in 2011.

Data announced in May 2009, regarding independent clinical studies conducted at University Hospital in Switzerland designed to assess the effect of oral administration of two peptides, GLP-1 and PYY 3-36, using Eligen^® Technology on appetite suppression, demonstrated the ability of both peptides to reduce appetite and food consumption in healthy subjects and in patients with obesity.