Non-invasive blood sugar testing device for diabetes patients developed

A new laser sensor that is able to monitor blood glucose levels without penetrating the skin has been developed, opening up new possibilities for the treatment of diabetes.

Created by the University of Leeds, the small device features a nano-engineered silica glass component, with ions that fluoresce in infrared light when a low power laser light hits them.

When this glass comes into contact with the skin, the extent of fluorescence signal varies in relation to the concentration of glucose in their blood. This process takes less than 30 seconds and means people would no longer have to prick the skin to take measurements.

As well as being quick and painless, it has continuous monitoring capabilities, making it ideal for development as a wearable device, allowing glucose levels to be monitored continuously without the need for an implant.

It is anticipated that the new monitor has the potential to perform as well as conventional technologies.

Professor Gin Jose, leader of the University of Leeds team behind this project, said: "We are piloting a benchtop version in our clinical investigations, but aim to develop two types of devices for the market. One will be a finger-touch device similar to a computer mouse; the other will be a wearable version for continuous monitoring."