The duodenum, the initial segment of the small intestine often overlooked in our daily reflections, could hold the secret to revolutionizing the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
In a bright and well-equipped laboratory of the University of Amsterdam two researchers, Celine Busch e Jacques Bergman, have embarked on a scientific journey, exploring the potential of this small but fundamental organ.
Type 2 diabetes, a scourge
Our body is a complex and fascinating machine, and every part of it plays a crucial role. But who would have thought that the duodenum could be the key to fighting one of the most widespread diseases in the world? Type 2 diabetes affects millions of people, and most of them rely on medications and insulin injections to manage the disease. But these treatments, while effective, have side effects and are not without complications.
This research, launched last April with results that came alive in late June, has explored a new frontier: the use of electrical stimulation of the duodenum. The non-invasive, short-term procedure could offer patients with type 2 diabetes an alternative solution, allowing them to maintain blood sugar balance and, in many cases, stop using insulin. "The potential to control diabetes with a single endoscopic treatment is incredible," Busch exclaimed with a mixture of excitement and surprise.
Behind the scenes of research
But how exactly does this procedure work? In the pilot study, 14 patients underwent an hour-long endoscopic procedure in which alternating electrical impulses were delivered to the wall of the duodenum. After the procedure, patients were discharged the same day and placed on a low-calorie liquid diet for two weeks. They then started taking up to 1mg per week of semagglutide, the well-known medicine for diabetes that has also produced surprising results against obesity.
The results? Surprising. Most patients maintained good glycemic control without insulin for a full year.
Despite the enthusiasm, it is essential to proceed with caution. The research is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to confirm these promising results. However, the optimism is palpable. "This is just the beginning of what could be a major breakthrough in diabetes research," Busch said, with a glimmer of hope in his eyes.
Type 2 diabetes, new horizons
Who would have thought? The duodenum, often ignored in biology lessons and relegated to the back of textbooks, could become the new medical star in beating type 2 diabetes.
Science has shown us that sometimes the most surprising answers come from the most unexpected sources. With research like this the horizon of medicine expands, offering new hope and possibilities.
