Insulin has been the cornerstone of diabetes treatment since its initial administration to humans in 1922.<sup>10 Best C.H. The first clinical use of insulin Diabetes 1956 ;  5 : 65-67

Cliccare qui per andare alla sezione Riferimenti</sup> As of 1989, approximately 40% of the 8 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes were receiving insulin as a component of their therapy.<sup>65 National Center for Health Statistics Current estimates from the National Health Interview Survey, 1989 Vital Health Stat 1990 ; Series 10, No. 176.

Cliccare qui per andare alla sezione Riferimenti</sup> The goals of insulin therapy are to replace the hormone in a manner which reproduces physiologic insulin secretion as closely as possible, ultimately, restoring normal plasma glucose concentrations, suppressing ketogenesis, and maintaining the vitality and health of patients affected with diabetes. Although these goals have remained relatively constant over the years, the principles and practice of insulin therapy have been continually refined as scientific knowledge of the pharmacologic activity and cellular effects of insulin have increased and as new therapeutic formulations of insulin have become available. Advances in microbiology have culminated in an age of protein engineering which is still in its infancy. Prospects for the further development of “designer insulins” which will facilitate more effective diabetes management seem almost unlimited.