started · updated
ETH Zurich researchers develop glucose-reducing implant
Researchers at ETH Zurich, led by Martin Fussenegger and Debasis Maity, have developed a wireless implant named ECHO (Electrocatalytic Closed-Loop Health Optimization) that can reduce blood glucose levels. The system has been successfully tested in mice with type 2 diabetes and obesity.
The implant uses electrocatalysis to convert excess glucose into gluconate, a substance that is largely excreted through the kidneys. The device consists of an inorganic catalyst made of graphite felt with gold nanostructures and platinum particles, housed in a 3D-printed polyamide casing.
Operation is controlled via a closed-loop system: a commercial glucose sensor monitors tissue fluid levels and communicates via Bluetooth to a smartphone or smartwatch. If glucose levels exceed a set threshold, the electronic unit activates the catalyst. Once levels return to the desired range, the system automatically shuts off to prevent hypoglycemia. In mouse trials, the technology helped lower blood sugar, reduce weight, and improve certain blood lipid values without causing hypoglycemia.
Entities
Debasis Maity · ETH Zurich · Echo · Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care · Maastricht University · Martin Fussenegger · New England Journal of Medicine · Science
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Brown fat converts energy into heat.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Body fat serves as an energy reserve by storing and releasing excess energy.
- [● 4 SOURCES] White fat protects the body against heat loss.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Low leptin levels can impair reproduction and immune defense.
- [● 4 SOURCES] In a 2009 study, 23 out of 24 men showed brown fat activity at 16 degrees Celsius.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Brown fat becomes particularly active in cold temperatures.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Fat tissue produces the hormone leptin to signal energy levels to the brain.