Eli Lilly used recombinant DNA technology to produce insulin in 1983.

Recombinant DNA technology is a technique that involves combining DNA molecules from different sources to create a new DNA sequence. It is commonly used in genetic engineering to produce proteins that are not naturally found in an organism. One important application of this technology is the production of human insulin.

In the past, insulin used for the treatment of diabetes was obtained from the pancreas of animals, such as pigs and cows. However, this animal insulin often caused allergic reactions in some patients. With the advent of recombinant DNA technology, it became possible to produce human insulin in large quantities and with a reduced risk of allergic reactions.

Eli Lilly, a pharmaceutical company, played a significant role in the development and production of recombinant human insulin. Here is a breakdown of the process:

1. Isolation of the human insulin gene: The gene that codes for human insulin was isolated from human DNA. This gene contains the instructions for producing the insulin protein.

2. Insertion into a plasmid: The human insulin gene was inserted into a circular piece of DNA called a plasmid. Plasmids are commonly used as vectors to transfer genes into host organisms.

3. Transformation of bacteria: The recombinant plasmid was introduced into bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, through a process called transformation. The bacteria act as host organisms and are capable of producing large quantities of the insulin protein.

4. Expression of the insulin gene: The transformed bacteria were grown in large fermentation tanks under controlled conditions. Within the bacteria, the insulin gene was expressed, resulting in the production of the insulin protein.

5. Purification of insulin: After the bacteria produced the insulin protein, it needed to be purified. Various purification techniques, such as chromatography, were used to isolate and purify the insulin.

6. Formulation and distribution: Once purified, the insulin was formulated into different types (e.g., rapid-acting, long-acting) and made available for distribution to diabetic patients.

Through this process, Eli Lilly successfully utilized recombinant DNA technology to produce human insulin in large quantities. This advancement in biotechnology revolutionized the treatment of diabetes and provided a safer and more effective option for patients in need of insulin therapy.