Contact lenses to monitor blood sugar levels

Scientists from Oregon State University are developing a revolutionary biosensor that can be integrated into a contact lens, by utilising technology found in high resolution image display devices like televisions and smartphones.{{quote-A:R-W:450-I:2-Q: A more advanced method involves having tiny electrodes surgically implanted under the skin to monitor glucose levels on a regular basis. -WHO:Gregory Herman, Professor at Oregon State University}}Professor Gregory Herman and his team have developed a biosensor made up of tiny siconductors that uses a compound called indium valium zinc oxide (IGZO). The prototype biosensor is made of IGZO transistors on a thin transparent sheet, together with an enzyme called glucose oxidase that breaks down glucose.When the biosensor comes in contact with glucose, the enzyme oxidises the blood sugar, causing a shift in the pH level that triggers electrical signals to the IGZO transistors. Tears provide the glucose instead of blood, concentrations after they were found to have similar properties.According to Herman, he was looking for a better alternative for people with diabetes to monitor their health through painless and less-intrusive means. The most popular current method is the prick syst, which acquires blood samples for glucose testing.A more advanced method involves having tiny electrodes surgically implanted under the skin to monitor glucose levels on a regular basis. However, the process can cause adverse reactions like skin irritations and infections.Herman has estimated that IGZO biosensors can be so versatile that more than 2500 sensors can fit in a one millimetre area or, in this case, a contact lens. Each of these biosensors could then be programmed to measure a different body function.However, given the current model is still in development, yet to be attached to a contact lens and only able to test for glucose, it is not known if the technology will be able to be leveraged to monitor other chicals.