As we reflect on the legacies of our nation’s forefathers this month, we also turn our thoughts to those who have shaped the course of diabetes care and advocacy. Groundbreaking figures like Dr. Elliot Joslin—widely recognized for his pioneering efforts in diabetes education and care—helped lay the foundation for modern diabetes management. The world owes a tremendous debt to Frederick Banting, Charles Best, and John Macleod, whose discovery of insulin nearly a century ago transformed diabetes from a fatal disease into a manageable condition.

Pioneers in Diabetes Research

Frederick Banting, Charles Best, and John Macleod made a groundbreaking discovery in 1921 that revolutionized diabetes treatment. Their work led to the isolation and purification of insulin, transforming diabetes from a fatal disease into a manageable condition. Banting's personal experience with the loss of a childhood friend to diabetes influenced his determination to find a cure, ultimately resulting in him becoming the youngest Nobel Prize recipient in Medicine in 1923.

Dr. Elliot Joslin, another significant figure, established the Joslin Clinic in Boston. His work dramatically reduced diabetes mortality rates.

Some additional contributors to diabetes research

1. Oskar Minkowski and Joseph von Mering: In 1889, they discovered the link between the pancreas and diabetes by removing a dog's pancreas, leading to severe diabetes1.

2. Moses Barron: His 1920 article on the relationship between islets of Langerhans and diabetes influenced Frederick Banting's focus on diabetes research1.

3. Matthias H. Tschöp: Recipient of the 2023 Banting Medal for Scientific Achievement, he discovered novel classes of dual and triple gut hormone drugs that have transformed the fight against obesity and diabetes2.

4. Paul Zimmet: A global leader in transforming the understanding and threat of diabetes3.

These individuals, among many others, have significantly advanced our understanding and treatment of diabetes through their groundbreaking research and clinical work.

Modern Advancements

Today, organizations like Breakthrough T1D the leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, continue the legacy of these pioneers by supporting research to prevent and cure Type 1 diabetes. Their efforts ensure that the pipeline of diabetes research remains robust and promising.

Government Initiatives

Recent years have seen increased government focus on diabetes research and treatment. In 2022, the Advanced Research Project Agency for Health (ARPA-H) was launched to drive breakthroughs in preventing, detecting, and treating deadly diseases, including diabetes. This initiative has already yielded significant results, including the development of new diabetes drugs and the approval of novel treatments for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

Looking Forward

We must also look to the future as we honor these trailblazers and their contributions. The fight against diabetes continues, with ongoing research, advocacy, and community support playing crucial roles. By supporting organizations dedicated to diabetes research and staying informed about the latest developments, we can all contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those affected by diabetes and, ultimately, find a cure. 

At TempraMed we support diabetes research by donating a portion of every VIVI Cap sale to the Breakthrough T1D organization (previously the JDRF). We are committed to advancing groundbreaking innovations that make life a little easier for people whose lives rely on medications.

1. Karamanou M, Protogerou A, Tsoucalas G, Androutsos G, Poulakou-Rebelakou E. Milestones in the history of diabetes mellitus: The main contributors. World J Diabetes. 2016 Jan 10;7(1):1-7. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v7.i1.1. PMID: 26788261; PMCID: PMC4707300.

2. https://diabetes.org/newsroom/extraordinary-leaders-diabetes-research-prevention-treatment-recognized-at-ada-83-scientific-sessions

3. https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/44/11/2460/138497/Paul-Zimmet-A-Voice-for-Diabetes