Monitoring Blood Sugar - Diabetes Research Connection

Diabetes Research News
July 1, 2020

Using Saliva to Monitor Blood Glucose Levels

Traditional blood glucose monitoring for type 1 diabetes has involved using finger sticks to draw and test a small droplet of blood. This can leave fingers sore and calloused as testing occurs multiple times throughout the day to keep blood sugar in check. In addition, it requires a variety of supplies, and lancets used to draw blood must be disposed of safely and properly.

A recent study found that there may be a non-invasive method of monitoring blood sugar that is easier to collect and test: saliva. Researchers found that saliva contains numerous biomarkers that could make it a feasible alternative to blood. In addition, testing is conducted using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy rather than the reagents that are necessary when blood is used. That makes saliva a more sustainable and eco-friendly option as well. In early testing, using saliva was 95.2% accurate in monitoring blood sugar.

Regular testing and monitoring of blood sugar is essential for individuals with type 1 diabetes to reduce risk of hypo- or hyperglycemia as well as diabetic ketoacidosis and other complications. However, many people do not enjoy constant finger sticks. Using saliva and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy or other technology could become a non-invasive, less painful option. This process is still in early stages of testing, and more research is needed to determine its efficacy and how exactly it could be used by patients.

Diabetes Research Connection (DRC) is excited to see how this form of blood glucose monitoring evolves moving forward and what it could mean for individuals living with type 1 diabetes. It is another step toward providing more management options and better meeting the needs of individuals with diabetes.

Though not involved with this study, the DRC is committed to providing critical funding for early-career scientists pursuing research related to type 1 diabetes. This could include topics focused on improved diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and management of the disease, as well as minimizing complications, enhancing quality of life, and finding a cure. Click to learn more about current projects and provide support.

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Diabetes Research News
March 21, 2018

Could Implantable Glucose Sensors be a Viable Option for Monitoring Blood Sugar?

Diabetes management has come a long way over the years. Some people have transitioned away from constant finger pricks and begun using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems to track their blood sugar and alert them to episodes of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. However, not everyone has the same level of adherence to using this technology, so results can be inconsistent.

Researchers from Diablo Clinical Research recently conducted a study on the use of implantable, subcutaneous continuous glucose sensors for diabetes management. A small sensor was placed under the skin, and then a transmitter was positioned over top providing wireless power and transmission of data to a mobile app. The transmitter also vibrated to alert users of episodes of hyper- or hypoglycemia in addition to alerts being sent to the app.

There were 90 adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who participated in the nonrandomized, prospective, masked, single-arm study which lasted for 90 days. Sixty-one of the participants had type 1 diabetes. Individuals underwent accuracy assessment visits on days 1, 30, 60, and 90 to compare results of the implantable sensor versus a bedside glucose analyzer. In addition, some participants also partook in hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia challenges on days 30, 60, and 90. There were only eight participants who did not complete the study, and 12 reports of mild adverse events and two moderate adverse events.

Following the study, the results showed “more than 90% of continuous glucose monitoring system readings within 20% of reference values.” Furthermore, “the system correctly identified 93% of hypoglycemic events and 96% of hyperglycemic events by the reference glucose reader.” The implantable CGM system used was Eversense by Senseonics.

Additional clinical studies are necessary to further evaluate the safety and accuracy of the system and expand potential use to pediatric patients as well. However, preliminary results show high levels of safety and accuracy in this small study.

This is an exciting step toward providing individuals with T1D another option for managing diabetes allowing them to measure blood sugar levels more consistently and with less intervention. The Diabetes Research Connection (DRC) is interested to see how this study advances moving forward and what it may mean for diabetes management in the future. The DRC raises funds for early career scientists to perform peer-reviewed, novel research designed to prevent and cure type 1 diabetes, minimize its complications, and improve quality of life for those living with the disease. Click to learn more about current projects and provide support.

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