“There remains a lot of work to be done”

– Professor Holst, you along with your colleagues are the winners of the 2023 VinFuture Special Prize, for your groundbreaking discovery of the GLP-1 hormone. What does it mean to you to receive this significant recognition?

– I was delighted to observe the global acceptance of this groundbreaking advancement of GLP-1. It is a testament to the positive impact it has had on countless individuals worldwide. Millions of people are now living healthier, happier lives as a result of this treatment. As a physician, I find this development incredibly inspiring. It is truly remarkable to witness the transformative effect it has had on human health.

I am particularly intrigued by the increasing number of patients receiving GLP-1 receptor agonists. This rapid adoption suggests that significant advancements in obesity and diabetes treatment are imminent. The potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists represents a truly groundbreaking development in the field.

– How has this recognition influenced the direction of your research and shaped your career path moving forward?

– The growing interest in GLP-1 is evident. The public expectation fosters expectations regarding the potential benefits and applications of this technology.

The global rise in obesity and type 2 diabetes poses significant health challenges, including increased risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Fortunately, recent advancements demonstrate that these conditions can be effectively managed. The burning question is how we could make sure that more people suffering from these diseases can be treated.

Several challenges currently hinder the widespread accessibility of these compounds. High costs and limited availability are significant concerns. Addressing these issues requires collaboration between health authorities and pharmaceutical companies to ensure that more patients can benefit from this valuable therapy. This is a key focus of my current work, as I strive to raise awareness of these challenges and advocate for solutions.

Our laboratory is currently investigating a novel aspect of obesity and diabetes treatment: the secretion of GLP-1. Through extensive research into bariatric surgery, we have observed a significant increase in GLP-1 production following procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. They’re both associated with a huge secretion of GLP-1.

There is no question that the secretion of these gut hormones is the driving force behind weight loss after bariatric procedures. GLP-1, along with another hormone known as PYY, is believed to be instrumental in weight loss after bariatric surgery.

Our research aims to understand the mechanisms that stimulate the secretion of these hormones. By elucidating these processes, we hope to develop non-surgical interventions that can increase GLP-1 production. This could potentially offer innovative therapeutic options for both obesity and diabetes.

This represents a promising parallel approach to the treatment of diabetes and obesity. Our research is particularly exciting due to the availability of sophisticated models that allow us to replicate these processes in the laboratory. However, there remains a significant amount of work to be done.

VinFuture tạo động lực to lớn cho các nhà nghiên cứu 

– Since then your pioneering work has garnered widespread acclaim, culminating in numerous prestigious awards. Could you discuss the potential impact of the VinFuture Prize as a catalyst for global awareness and appreciation for cutting-edge research?

– Receiving such significant recognition like the VinFuture Prize is invaluable. It not only boosts morale within our research laboratory but also enhances public awareness of our work. Additionally, it signals to the pharmaceutical industry that these discoveries are appreciated and valued, which paves the way for community-based applications.

– How do you envision the VinFuture Prize contributing to the advancement of innovation and the resolution of pressing global challenges, especially within the medical field?– I wholeheartedly agree. My research philosophy centers around the idea that scientific discoveries should directly benefit society. This belief has guided our work, leading to groundbreaking achievements like the discovery of GLP-1 and the elucidation of the ozone depletion mechanism.

More importantly, recognition like the VInFuture Prize will essentially expand your perspective beyond the confines of the laboratory. This research extends far beyond scientific experimentation and directly impacts the health of millions of individuals. The prize’s emphasis on this aspect is particularly inspiring, motivating researchers to consider the broader societal implications of their work.
– As a previous winner of this prestigious award, what do you see as the most compelling aspects of the VinFuture Prize?

– One of the highlights of the award ceremony was the opportunity to meet fellow recipients. I was particularly impressed by Professor Susan Solomon, the female scientist who made the groundbreaking discovery of the ozone hole. Her work is truly groundbreaking.

I was also fascinated to learn about the two researchers who developed resistant rice varieties capable of being harvested three times a day, significantly improving rice production efficiency.

Additionally, the individuals behind lithium battery technology were inspiring. It was evident that these discoveries have had a profound impact on both research and the lives of countless people. Meeting them was a truly enriching experience that broadened my perspective and highlighted the immense power of science and technology to improve the lives of millions