The device uses energy from blood sugar to activate the insulin pump

Researchers at the Federal Polytechnic School of Zurich (ETH) in Switzerland have created a working prototype of a piece of equipment theorized for years: glucose fuel cells. The device, which is practically a little larger than a fingernail, can convert the chemical energy of simple sugar into electrical energy.

According to Martin Fussenegger, professor of biotechnology and bioengineering at ETH, the overall goal of the research is to autonomously regulate patients’ insulin and glucose levels, as well as “to be used to treat diabetes in the future.” says, note the project leader. the result is obtained using excess blood sugar (glucose) to electrically activate a fuel cell implanted under the skin.

When activated, the equipment stimulates artificial beta cells (created by the same team in 2016) to release insulin, hormone not naturally produced by the pancreas in patients with type 1 diabetes. This externally produced substance is currently released by bioelectronic pumps that consume a lot of energy, as well as wirelessly operated, which complicates mobility and reliability.

How does a cell using glucose as fuel work?

The “magic” behind the new electrolytic cell is an anode (positive electrode) invented by Fussenegger’s team and made of copper-based nanoparticles. This element splits glucose into gluconic acid and a proton to produce electricity. start an electrical circuit.

It is a small piece of nonwoven fabric (NTT) soaked with alginate, a natural polymer made from seaweed and approved for medical use, that serves as a container for the electrolyte solution. Inside this “tea bag” that can be implanted under the skinThe alginate absorbs body fluid, allowing it to pass from the tissue to the inner fuel cell.

Fussenegger is now looking for an industry partner to launch the device. The research was published in the journal Advanced Materials.