Nanoform Biosensor Measures Glucose Without Needle Pricks

A novel biosensor located on the patient’s body could measure glucose levels continuously using tissue fluids other than blood, such as in sweat or tears.

Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems (IMS; Duisburg, Germany) developed the new biosensor, which involves an electrochemical reaction that is activated with the aid of an enzyme. Glucose oxidase converts glucose into hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and other chemicals whose concentration can be measured with a potentiostat. This measurement is used for calculating the glucose level. The special feature of the biosensor is the size of the chip, which measures just 0.5 x 2.0 millimeters, which includes the entire diagnostic system.


However, the minimal size is not the only thing that provides a substantial advantage over previous biosensors of this type; it also consumes substantially less power since it is a passive system. The sensor is able to send and receive data packages, but it can also be supplied with power through radio frequency (RF), and while earlier systems required about 500 microamperes at five volts, the new system requires less than 100 microamperes, increasing durability and allowing the patient to wear the sensor for weeks, or even months.

According to the researchers at the IMS, the noninvasive measuring devices for monitoring blood glucose levels may become the basis for a particularly useful further development in the future; the biochip could control an implanted miniature insulin pump that, based on the glucose value measured, indicates the precise amount of insulin that needs to be administered. The glucose biosensor, which is still under development, was engineered by the researchers at NovioTech (Nijmegen, The Netherlands), and could be manufactured so cost-effectively that it would be best suited for mass production.

“In the past, you used to need a circuit board the size of a half-sheet of paper, and you also had to have a driver. But even these things are no longer necessary with our new sensor,” said Tom Zimmermann, business unit manager at IMS. “It even has an integrated analog digital converter that converts the electrochemical signals into digital data. The biosensor transmits the data via a wireless interface, for example to a mobile receiver. Thus, the patient can keep a steady eye on his or her glucose level. “

Related Links:
Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems
NovioTech