MIT unveils an implant that automatically treats low blood sugar in those with type 1 diabetes

MIT's implant treats type 1 diabetics' low blood sugar by releasing glucagon when needed.

: MIT engineers have developed an innovative implantable device designed to help individuals with type 1 diabetes by automatically or remotely releasing glucagon during episodes of dangerously low blood sugar. This breakthrough device, about the size of a quarter, utilizes a 3D-printed polymer reservoir that stores glucagon in a stable powdered form and features a shape-memory alloy that releases its contents when activated by heat. The device's design allows it to interface with continuous glucose monitors for precise medication release, successfully maintaining normal blood sugar levels in lab tests with diabetic mice. Researchers are hopeful this technology will advance to human clinical trials within three years, promising new levels of safety and health management for diabetes patients.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has introduced a groundbreaking device aimed at combating severe hypoglycemia in individuals with type 1 diabetes. With the complexity of managing blood sugar levels compounded by the potential dangers of low blood sugar, MIT's new device offers a promising solution. The implanted device releases glucagon, a hormone essential in maintaining blood sugar levels, when it senses a drop, aiming to prevent dire health consequences such as seizures or death that can occur if low blood sugar is untreated.

The heart of the innovation lies in its design: a small reservoir comparable to the size of a quarter, fabricated using a 3D-printed polymer. This reservoir houses glucagon in a powdered form, which is noted for its stability compared to its liquid counterpart. Essential to its function is a shape-memory alloy made of nickel and titanium, which controls the release of glucagon. Upon reaching the critical temperature of 40 degrees Celsius, the alloy bends and opens the reservoir, allowing the powdered glucagon to enter the body after being triggered by either manual input or automatically via a glucose monitor signal.

A significant highlight of this device is its capability to integrate with continuous glucose monitors, ensuring that glucagon release aligns with the precise moment when blood sugar levels dip below safe thresholds. This autonomous function is particularly beneficial during sleep or for those unaware of their hypoglycemic state. In laboratory trials using diabetic mice models, the device demonstrated effectiveness, restoring normal blood sugar levels within ten minutes post-activation.

Further showcasing its versatility, MIT researchers explored the device’s potential in administering epinephrine, a common emergency treatment for severe allergic reactions and cardiac incidents. Tests showed epinephrine could be administered efficiently with a rapid heart rate increase observed, suggesting the device's broader application potential.

Despite the challenges posed by the body’s natural response to foreign objects, such as scar tissue formation, the device maintained its functionality, effectively releasing medication on demand. Initial animal model tests demonstrated success for up to four weeks, with ongoing projects aiming to extend this to over a year. Trending towards eventual human clinical trials within three years, this device positions itself as a vital advancement in both diabetes management and emergency medical treatments.

Sources: TechSpot, MIT News

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