Both type 1 and type diabetes are very common, and if blood-glucose levels are not monitored, patients can experience hyperglycaemia or hypoglycaemia. Despite commonality, diabetes can leave many patients anxious, and it is a constant burden, always having to monitor blood glucose levels.
Joan Taylor, Emeritus Professor at De Montfort University, introduced a fully implantable, refillable device for blood glucose control in diabetes using a glucose-sensitive gel that adjusts insulin delivery without electronics, batteries, or moving parts. Unlike other diabetes treatment technologies on the market, this device is non-immunogenic and does not require immunosuppression, and is designed to be clutter-free and unobtrusive.
Taylor described the mechanism of the device in greater detail. She explained that the gel transitions between gel and sol states depending on glucose levels, modulating insulin diffusion accordingly. When glucose levels are high, the gel liquefies, leading to faster insulin release. Whereas, if glucose levels are low, the gel solidifies, which triggers slower insulin release. The system is closed-loop and entirely internal, meaning patients wouldn’t have to think about it.
In vitro experiments showed glucose-dependent insulin diffusion and gel stability over 700. In vivo experiments in rats and pigs showed promising glucose control. The team developed a peritoneal pocket to prevent complications. The device was successfully refilled in clinical trials, and a larger version of the device managed to increase surface area by 80% to improve performance. Taylor noted that there were some infection challenges, so changes to surgical procedures and sterilization methods were needed.
To progress with this device, Taylor outlined future plans to include further animal trials with improved device design, continuous monitoring, and comparison with existing technologies. The funding requirement is £160,000 for the next phase and £1 million for full statistical validation.
To wrap up, the device aims to offer real-time, reliable glucose control for type 1 diabetes patients. Hopefully, this represents an important step toward first-in-human trials and providing a simpler, more effective alternative to current therapies.
