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MEDICAL
HIGH-TECH
Scientists at Oregon State University have developed a tiny sensor that can measure the concentration of glucose in tears, and may one
day be integrated into contact lenses for noninvasive glucometry.
The sensor relies on an amorphous indium gallium oxide field effect transistor, or IGZO FET, which can be connected to an external display device or insulin pump to create a more comprehensive diabetes management system.
The sensor itself is essentially transparent, but there’s still a great deal of work left to be able to integrate it into a contact lens and be able to receive its readings. Nevertheless, we hope that the hardest part has been overcome and the remaining technical challenges will be conquered quickly. Certainly just about everyone with diabetes would love a way to measure blood glucose levels without having to prick themselves.