Researchers at MGH and Boston University have reported that an “artificial pancreas” has worked in 11 patients enrolled in a study sponsored by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The device consists of insulin pumps, glucose sensors, and a laptop with regulatory software.
From the press release:
After some adjustments to a sophisticated computer program that acts as the brain of the system, all 11 adults in the study had good blood sugar control without experiencing hypoglycemia, even after eating three high-carbohydrate meals.
“This is the first artificial pancreas device that has used both insulin and glucagon,” said Dr. Steven Russell of Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, who helped lead the study.
The finding is the latest in what has become a race to develop a fully functioning artificial pancreas that can give patients with type 1 diabetes an automated way to control their blood sugar.
Link to video from The Drs show discussing the system…
JDRF press release: Novel Artificial Pancreas System Using Two Hormones Successfully Controls Blood Sugar Levels In Type 1 Diabetes Patients
Link: Artificial Pancreas Project
Flashback:JDRF and Animas Invest in Artificial Pancreas Project
Image: café-moka
