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Peptide History beginner

History of Peptide Therapeutics

From insulin to modern GLP-1 agonists, the evolution of peptide drugs over a century.

By Encyclopeptide Editorial | 1 min read
therapeutics drugs history clinical

Overview

Peptide therapeutics have grown from early insulin preparations to a diverse class of drugs treating diabetes, cancer, rare diseases, and more.

Key Milestones

  • 1922: First insulin injection
  • 1970s: GnRH agonists for cancer
  • 1980s: Cyclosporine for transplant rejection
  • 1990s: Enfuvirtide for HIV
  • 2000s: Exenatide for type 2 diabetes
  • 2010s: GLP-1 agonists transform obesity treatment
  • 2020s: Peptide drug conjugates and stapled peptides

Impact

Over 80 peptide drugs are now approved worldwide, with the market exceeding $50 billion annually. Peptides bridge the gap between small molecules and biologics.

References

  • Source: ENCP Peptide Database
  • Category: Peptide History

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