genetic sequencing,, drug development

The Rise of GLP-1 Drugs  Glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1) agonist drugs have emerged as one of the most significant breakthroughs in recent pharmaceutical history. Designed for managing Type 2 diabetes, these drugs have made news headlines and skyrocketed in popularity for their effectiveness in weight loss.   Transition from Diabetes to Weight Loss:  The GLP-1 hormone was first identified by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in 1986 as a glucagon precursor. This quickly found commercial applications for managing conditions such as diabetes with Novo Nordisk developing liraglutide in 1990s. This eventually led to the development of semaglutide in 2012, with a similar mechanism of action, but slower onset of effect and longer duration of action. Initially designed for diabetes treatment, the FDA approved Ozempic in 2017. Researchers noted in clinical trials that participants lost 10-15% of their body weight, prompting further applications for weight loss and obesity. Wegovy, another semaglutide-based formulation, uses a higher dose specifically for weight loss and achieved FDA approval…