March 17, 2016
Researchers are working on a patch capable of automatically regulating the level of sugar in the blood of diabetics, by diffusing insulin when the body lacks it.
The patch detects that the patient needs insulin
Biotechnology holds many surprises in store: a team of researchers has developed a patch system capable of releasing insulin in the body of a diabetic, as soon as his sugar level exceeds a certain threshold. Here, no electronics, no insulin pump implanted in the patient’s body, but a simple plastic film decked out in micro-spikes which are planted in the epidermis!
The patch, once in position, is able to regulate the sugar level in the patient’s body for about ten hours. Each time the sugar level increases, micro-pockets of insulin present in the patch burst, and are diffused in the patient’s blood.
No reaction from the immune system
Unlike subcutaneous implants and insulin pumps currently in development, especially in France, this patch is extremely easy to use. Note that the micro-tips present under the patch are thinner than an eyelash. The designers claim that you hardly feel anything when applying.
The team that designed this patch, still experimental, now hopes to achieve 24 continuous hours of blood sugar regulation, with a single application.. For the moment, no marketing in sight, because there are still many tests to be carried out to validate the correct functioning …
Read also: All about the 3 forms of diabetes
