16/04/2024

A new non-invasive glucose monitoring optical sensor, poised to transform diabetes management by providing pain-free glucose level measurements, has been developed by researchers at RMIT University.

Researchers at TMOS, the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems based at RMIT University, have made a pivotal advance towards non-invasive glucose monitoring for diabetes management. Their development of a miniaturized optical sensor marks a potential departure from the invasive blood withdrawal methods currently used by diabetics.

Image: A gloved hand is handling a compact electronic device, which appears to be a sensor for medical diagnostics, in a laboratory setting; Copyright: RMIT University

TMOS infrared continuous glucose sensor in use.

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Transforming glucose monitoring

For years, the discomfort of finger pricks and adhesive microneedles has been a necessary inconvenience for individuals with diabetes. Now, researchers have identified new aspects of glucose's infrared signature, which could lead to continuous, non-invasive glucose monitoring.

Challenges in non-invasive techniques

Non-invasive glucose sensing is a highly sought-after goal in diabetes care due to its potential for pain-free monitoring. Past optical glucose sensing techniques, while reported, have been impractical for everyday patient use due to the need for complex optical instruments.

The team's research, published in Advanced Sensor Research, showcases a discovery of four infrared peaks specific to glucose. These allow for selective and sensitive glucose identification in both aqueous and biological environments, overcoming the longstanding challenge of distinguishing glucose signals from water absorption.

Development of a miniaturized sensor

The researchers have crafted a miniaturized glucose sensor that operates on a 1600-1700nm waveband, equipped with Bluetooth technology and powered by a coin battery. This new device has demonstrated the ability to accurately detect glucose levels within the human body range in blood plasma.

The prototype sensor's compact size indicates potential integration with smartwatches and other wearable health trackers, ensuring continuous and pain-free monitoring of glucose levels.

Lead author Mingjie Yang highlights the importance of identifying a unique glucose signature, paving the way for the advancement of optical glucose sensing technology. The team has produced a device prototype that serves as a foundation for future non-invasive glucose sensors.

Flexible, wearable device design

The device prototype features a surface-mounted device light-emitting diode (SMD LED) and thin-film copper-coated polymide circuits, significantly smaller than conventional spectrophotometers. Its patch-like design may eventually allow for wearable application on the skin.

The device's performance has been validated with aqueous glucose solutions and blood plasma. Computational analysis suggests promising locations for the sensor's application in clinical settings.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Australian National University

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