Researchers at Texas A&M University have made a significant breakthrough in diabetes care, developing a miniature continuous glucose monitor (CGM) as small as a grain of rice. This revolutionary device, which has received support from a National Science Foundation grant, is set to transform how people with diabetes manage their condition.
The proposed CGM, led by Dr. Gerard Coté and his team, is designed to be minimally invasive and user-friendly. Unlike conventional CGMs, which require a needle in the skin connected to an arm patch, this tiny sensor is injected under the skin and analyzed using a watch-type device that emits light to determine glucose concentration. The data can then be transmitted to a smartphone, making it easy for patients to share their glucose levels with healthcare providers.
What makes this new CGM stand out is its size and injectability. Being as small as a grain of rice, it sets itself apart from larger models that require surgical implantation. Additionally, the sensor and wearable reader utilize autofluorescence technology, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with darker skin tones. The sensing technology’s fluorescent color emits in the red and infrared range, providing better accuracy across various skin tones.
Co-principal investigator Dr. Melissa Grunlan is also focusing on encapsulating the sensor in a thermoresponsive hydrogel membrane. This thermoresponsive membrane helps prevent the body from rejecting the sensor and forming scar tissue, ensuring long-term functionality.
The development of this rice-sized CGM is the result of nearly two decades of collaborative research between Dr. Coté’s biosensing expertise and Dr. Grunlan’s biomaterial expertise. Their combined skills and experience have laid a solid foundation for the success of this project.
With its minimally invasive nature and advanced technology, this groundbreaking CGM represents a significant step forward in diabetes management. It has the potential to enhance the quality of life for millions of people living with diabetes worldwide and transform the landscape of glucose monitoring and diabetes care.
As this project progresses, it opens doors for further advancements in diabetes care and paves the way for improved monitoring systems that prioritize user comfort and convenience. The team’s dedication and innovative approach are driving the future of diabetes management.
Please note: The information in this article is based on preliminary research findings and should not replace professional medical advice.
