In 2024, three scientists were recognized by Time Magazine as among the 100 most influential people in the world for their pioneering work in weight loss drugs. These individuals include Professor Daniel Joshua Drucker, Professor Joel Francis Habener, and Associate Professor Svetlana Mojsov.
The professors were honored for their research and development of effective weight loss drugs, specifically focusing on diabetes drugs. Their work led to the identification of a crucial link between insulin and incretins, specifically GLP-1, which plays a key role in controlling blood sugar levels and weight. This discovery has paved the way for innovative treatments for diabetes, obesity, and potentially neurodegenerative diseases.
At the VinFuture Awards season 3 in December 2023, these scientists were awarded a special prize for their groundbreaking work on GLP-1. Their contributions have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of this hormone and its impact on insulin levels. The use of GLP-1-based drugs has been approved in the US for treating diabetes and obesity, with potential applications in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Ongoing research is exploring further uses of these drugs in combating Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, kidney diseases, and liver disease.
Associate Professor Svetlana Mojsov’s recognition by Time Magazine underscores the importance of her pioneering work in this field, which was previously overlooked by major international biomedical awards. Her contributions have been instrumental in synthesizing GLP-1 and developing antibodies against it for crucial research.
The dedication of these scientists to scientific research and innovation continues to shape the future of healthcare. Their accolades from Time Magazine highlight not only their outstanding achievements but also their commitment to advancing knowledge through rigorous scientific study.
In conclusion, this recognition serves as an inspiration to aspiring researchers who seek to make a significant impact on society through their work. It also underscores the importance of continued investment in scientific research to solve some of humanity’s most pressing challenges related to health and wellness.
