Replacing Pumps with Light Controlled Insulin Delivery

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe aim of this review is to summarize the development of the photoactivated depot (PAD) approach for the minimally invasive and continuously variable delivery of insulin.Recent FindingsUsing an insulin PAD, we have demonstrated that we can release native, bioactive insulin into diabetic animals in response to light signals from a small external LED light source. We have further shown that this released insulin retains bioactivity and reduces blood glucose. In addition, we have designed and constructed second generation materials that have high insulin densities, with the potential for multiple day delivery.SummaryThe PAD approach for insulin therapy holds promise for addressing the pressing need for continuously variable delivery methods that do not rely on pumps, and their myriad associated problems.
Source: Current Diabetes Reports - Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research