Engineered Hormones, Evidence of the Miracle of Creation

Have we ever wondered how our bodies can regulate blood sugar levels so precisely? One of the key hormones in this process is Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which plays a role in controlling blood glucose levels and appetite. Recently, scientists have discovered a way to modify GLP-1 so that it can remain active longer in the body!

Research conducted by Cary et al. (2025) shows that a small modification in the structure of GLP-1 can produce a longer-lasting effect. They found that by substituting a single amino acid at a specific position in this hormone, the signaling can be extended without disrupting the receptor internalization process within cells. Even more intriguingly, with a combination of other changes, they were able to retain the hormone's effect without triggering the internalization pathway at all!

This discovery not only offers new insight into how hormones work in the body but also opens the door for developing more effective therapies for diabetes and obesity. A hormone that lasts longer means patients can benefit from treatment with less frequent doses, reducing their dependence on medication and improving their quality of life.

When you think about it, it’s much like how God designed our lives. There are moments when we must be “internalized”—perhaps tested or drawn into difficulties so that we may grow more deeply. Yet, there are also times when God allows us to remain functioning and impactful, even without going through the same processes as others.

A reflection for us

Everyone has their own path in living out life and God’s plan. Some have to go through long processes, others are given shortcuts, but all are directed for our good.

As written in Romans 8:28:

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

So, if today you find yourself in a long or difficult process, believe that God is at work in your life, shaping something better—just as scientists have discovered new ways to make a hormone work longer to heal many people!

Reference

B.P. Cary, M.V. Hager, Z. Mariam, R.K. Morris, M.J. Belousoff, G. Deganutti, P.M. Sexton, D. Wootten, & S.H. Gellman, Prolonged signaling of backbone-modified glucagon‐like peptide‐1 analogues with diverse receptor trafficking, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 122 (14) e2407574122, https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2407574122 (2025).