Introduction:
In 1983, Eli Lilly used recombinant DNA technology to produce insulin. This breakthrough in medical science revolutionized the treatment of diabetes by providing a synthetic form of insulin that was identical to the human hormone.

Explanation:
Recombinant DNA technology involves the manipulation of DNA molecules to create new combinations of genetic material. In the case of insulin production, scientists used this technology to insert the human insulin gene into a bacterial host, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Process:
The process of producing insulin using recombinant DNA technology can be summarized as follows:

1. Isolation of the human insulin gene: The human insulin gene was isolated from human pancreatic cells, which naturally produce insulin.

2. Insertion into a plasmid vector: The insulin gene was inserted into a plasmid vector, a small, circular piece of DNA that can replicate independently within a bacterial cell.

3. Transformation of bacteria: The recombinant plasmid was introduced into a bacterial host, such as E. coli, through a process called transformation. The bacteria then incorporated the plasmid into their own DNA.

4. Expression of the insulin gene: The bacterial host cells were grown under specific conditions that allowed them to express the insulin gene and produce insulin protein.

5. Purification of insulin: The insulin protein was purified from the bacterial cells using various techniques, such as chromatography, to remove impurities and obtain a highly pure form of insulin.

Eli Lilly's Contribution:
Eli Lilly, a pharmaceutical company, played a significant role in the development and commercialization of recombinant DNA technology for insulin production. The company invested in research and development to optimize the production process and ensure the safety and efficacy of the synthetic insulin.

Impact:
The use of recombinant DNA technology to produce insulin had a profound impact on the treatment of diabetes. Prior to this breakthrough, insulin was extracted from animal sources, such as pigs and cows, which posed risks of contamination and allergic reactions in some patients. The availability of synthetic insulin made from human DNA eliminated these concerns and provided a safer and more effective treatment option for individuals with diabetes.

Conclusion:
In 1983, Eli Lilly utilized recombinant DNA technology to produce insulin, marking a significant milestone in the field of medicine. This breakthrough allowed for the production of synthetic insulin that was identical to the human hormone, revolutionizing the treatment of diabetes and improving the lives of millions of people worldwide.