Can ‘Artificial Pancreas’ cure Diabetes?
FDA has approved artificial pancreas systems. But then what is an artificial pancreas system and will it help tackle diabetes.
No need for multiple daily injections and fingerstick testing
The artificial pancreas, also known as closed-loop control, is an “all-in-one” diabetes management system. This machine tracks blood glucose levels with the help of a continuous glucose monitor and automatically delivers the insulin when needed using an insulin pump. It improves glucose control beyond what is achievable using traditional methods. So no need to test by fingerstick or dependence on multiple daily injections. The artificial pancreas technology has an insulin pump that is programmed with advanced control algorithms based on a mathematical model using the person’s glucose monitoring information to automatically adjust the insulin dose. This technology was derived from a system originally developed at the University of Virginia (UVA), Charlottesville.
Artificial Pancreas System for Type 1 Diabetes
Artificial Pancreas Product components include
1. An insulin pump, which provides a continuous flow of insulin into the body via an “infusion site” or small cannula inserted in the skin
2. A continuous glucose monitor that takes ongoing blood sugar readings via a little sensor worn on the skin that has its separate cannula from the pump
3. A controller — either the insulin pump itself or a separate receiver; eventually a smartphone mobile app — that includes the display screen where users can see glucose data
4. An algorithm software, which crunches the numbers to predict where glucose levels are headed and then tells the pump what to do
5. Glucagon, a hormone that rapidly increases blood glucose, is used here as an antidote to hypoglycaemia
For people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, an artificial pancreas can be a complete problem solver. This solution can delay and prevent the development of complications associated with type 1 diabetes.
Artificial Pancreas System for Type 2 Diabetes
The artificial pancreas is currently undergoing trial for outpatients with type 2 diabetes. Early results show that the device can help patients safely and effectively manage their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of low blood sugar levels. Unlike the artificial pancreas being used for type 1 diabetes, this version going to be a fully closed-loop system. The system would be worn externally on the body and is made up of three functional components: a glucose sensor, a computer algorithm to calculate the insulin dose, and an insulin pump.
How much does an artificial pancreas cost?
The price for the artificial pancreas is around $7,000 to $8,000 in the world market. Patients will have to purchase sensors and devices that establish compatibility as add on.
In India Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have created an artificial pancreas system that is undergoing clinical trial now. The Indian version should cost around Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000.
