I’m pleased to share that I’ve successfully completed Diabetes – A Global Challenge, an online course authorized by the University of Copenhagen and offered through Coursera. The content goes well beyond the basics, covering genetic factors, inflammatory processes, stem cell-based therapies, and the development of antidiabetic agents.

This course took a highly research-oriented approach, featuring insights from leading experts in endocrinology, metabolic research, and diabetes treatment. Professor Jens Juul Holst, co-discoverer of GLP-1, was among the instructors, further reinforcing the scientific rigor of the material. Despite its technical depth, I found it valuable for gaining a deeper understanding of diabetes and obesity.

The course was challenging and rewarding, pushing me to engage with diabetes and obesity research from a scientific perspective. For those looking to deepen their knowledge beyond clinical and practical aspects, this course offers a well-structured and insightful learning experience. It also helped me refine my note-taking and organization skills.

Thank you to the professors from the University of Copenhagen and Dr. Madsen from Novo Nordisk. At first, I wasn't sure if I should take such an in-depth course, but I'm glad I did.

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Modules

1. Introduction and Epidemiology of Diabetes
2. Obesity and Prevention of Diabetes
3. Physiological Regulation of Plasma Glucose
4. The Incretins
5. Clinical Manifestation of Diabetes and Treatment
6. Inflammatory Beta-Cell Destruction in Diabetes
7. Genetic Aspects of Diabetes
8. Translational Aspects
9. Development of Antidiabetic Agents
10. Stem Cell-Based Therapy of Diabetes
11. Exercise – How Does It Work?
12. Peer-Graded Assignment (write a short paper about a medical study, including references)

Instructors

Bente Merete Stallknecht, PhD, DMSc
Dean, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen
Professor of Health-Enhancing Physical Activity, University of Copenhagen

Allan Vaag, MD, PhD, DMSc
Professor of Endocrinology, Lund University
Affiliated Professor of Type 2 Pathophysiology, University of Copenhagen

Thorkild I.A. Sørensen, MD, DMSc
Professor of Genetic and Metabolic Epidemiology, University of Copenhagen

Sten Madsbad, MD, DMSc
Chief Physician, Department of Endocrinology, Hvidovre University Hospital, Copenhagen
Professor of Medical Endocrinology, University of Copenhagen

Signe Sørensen Torekov, PhD
Professor of Clinical and Translational Metabolism, University of Copenhagen

Jens Juul Holst, MD, DMSc
Professor of Medical Physiology, University of Copenhagen
Co-discoverer of GLP-1

Thomas Mandrup-Poulsen, MD, DMSc
Professor of Medical Research Methodology, University of Copenhagen

Torben Hansen, MD, PhD
Professor of Metabolic Genetics, University of Copenhagen

Birgitte Holst, MD, PhD
Professor MSO in Metabolic and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen
Founder and Head of Rodent Metabolic Phenotyping Center
Group leader of the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research

Ole Dragsbæk Madsen, PhD
Honorary Professor of Diabetes Stem Cell Research, University of Copenhagen
Senior Advisor, Retired, Novo Nordisk

Bente Klarlund Pedersen, MD, DMSc
Professor of Integrative Medicine, University of Copenhagen
Specialist in Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine
Director of Centre for Physical Activity Research (CFAS)

Degree Abbreviations

• PhD (Doctor of Philosophy): A doctoral degree awarded for original contributions to research in a specific academic field.
• MD (Doctor of Medicine): A professional degree in medicine, typically required for physicians.
• DMSc (Doctor of Medical Science): An advanced research doctorate in medical sciences, typically pursued by physicians engaging in advanced medical research.
• Professor MSO (Med Særlige Opgaver - With Special Responsibilities): A Danish academic title for professors who have specific research or administrative responsibilities, typically associated with leadership roles in research projects or centers.
• Affiliated Professor: A professor who holds a formal academic connection to an institution but may primarily work at another university or organization. This title often indicates a secondary appointment, typically involving research collaboration, guest lecturing, or advisory roles rather than full-time faculty responsibilities.