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Berlin:
A non-invasive approach could free diabetics from the pain of
several pinpricks.
A tiny bio-sensor engineered by Fraunhofer Institute for
Microelectronic Circuits and Systems IMS, Germany, is able to
monitor glucose levels continuously using tissue fluids, such as
in sweat or tears, which can be radioed to a mobile device.
In the past, such bio-electric sensors were too big, too imprecise
and consumed too much power.
Patients with Type-1 diabetes need to keep a close watch on their
levels, since their bodies are incapable of producing the insulin
to break down the glucose in the blood, according to a Fraunhofer
statement.
Testing a drop of blood several times daily on a strip, is the
only way they can ascertain the blood glucose value, so they can
inject the correct amount of insulin needed. And this pricking may
also cause inflammation or cornification of the skin. And for
pain-sensitive patients, the procedure is agony.
The bio-sensor transmits the data via a wireless interface, for
example to a mobile receiver. Thus, the patient can keep a steady
eye on his or her glucose level.
"In the past, you used to need a circuit board the size of a
half-sheet of paper," explained Tom Zimmermann, business unit
manager at Fraunhofer Institute IMS.
"You also had to have a driver. But even these things are no
longer necessary with our new sensor."
Besides, the sensor consumes substantially less power, which
increases the durability of the system - allowing the patient to
wear the sensor for weeks, or even months.
The sensor is able to send and receive data packages, but it can
also be supplied with power through radio frequency.
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