Queensland scientists have received funding to develop an implanted device that would eliminate the need for insulin injections.
The device is being developed by the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology at the University of Queensland, and if successful could change the lives of thousands of diabetics.
Diabetes Australia has confirmed funding for research and trials to go ahead for the matchstick-sized implant, which is coated in enzymes and polymers that detect when insulin is needed in the bloodstream. Chun Xu, a research officer at the institute, told 7 News:
“[The polymers] are only open when the glucose level is higher than a normal range, but are closed when glucose goes back to a normal level.“
Allow me to be the first to say it: that’s… so cool.
Diabetes affects 1.2 million Australians, and about 400,000 of those are dependent on daily insulin. Current treatments include carefully monitoring diet and blood sugar, and administering insulin therapy. An implant like the one currently being trialled could make a huge difference in the treatment of the disease.
The implants are going to be tested on mice before moving on to human trials.
Source and image: 7News.
