Diabetes Monitoring Tattoo Developed to Provide Relief from Needle Pricks

A team of research scientists from the University of California have developed a diabetes monitoring tattoo paper, which can be applied to the skin to check glucose levels in the blood. The device resembles a thick piece of tape that comes with a small sensor and patterned electrodes. The tattoo paper works by inducing a mild electrical voltage that results in the extraction of fluids from the skin. This fluid is then analysed for glucose specific enzymes which is used to detect sugar concentration in the body.

The non-invasive procedure will serve as a welcome relief to diabetics who are frequently required to undergo testing through traditional methods. This includes the use of spring loaded needles which are used to prick fingers to draw blood. The diabetes monitoring tattoo paper was tested on a sample of 7 individuals after they consumed large meals. These individuals were then tested using traditional finger stick monitor methods as well. The levels of glucose measured by both the finger stick and tattoo paper were found to be the same.

According to Joseph Wang, one of the scientists' in-charge of the research, the procedure is also not only non-invasive but also causes no discomfort to the user. In the past, there have been other attempts to develop non-invasive glucose censors, namely the FDA approved Glucowatch. The device was however problematic since it did not show accuracy on a consistent basis. With the diabetes monitoring tattoo paper, the voltage used is lower than the glucowatch while the readings obtained also are far more accurate.

The team is currently working on an instrument that can be used to display the glucose levels. The instrument is also being equipped to transmit test readings through Bluetooth. If successful, the tattoo paper may eventually turn out to be a cheaper alternative to glucose strips.