Tiny Tattoos May Replace Needles for Diabetics

Posted on November 20, 2009 in Consumer Goods, Health & Medicine, Technology

Needle pricks are a daily necessity for diabetics who need to test their glucose levels. But a new sensor that changes color with rising blood sugar levels may eventually do away with the tiresome routine.

The sensor is a tiny tattoo made up of small spheres injected in the outermost layer of skin. It picks up on changes in a person’s skin and reacts with glucose levels, helping diabetics determine when they need that crucial shot of insulin.

The sensor is about the size of the clicker on the end of a ballpoint pen—barely noticeable. But the tattoo is made up of 600 miniscule rubbery beads that can be injected into the skin like a dye. When sugar levels rise, the tattoo turns purple as an alert.

The tattoo still hasn’t been tested on humans, but scientists are hopeful that it will succeed. Researchers will soon prepare to test the tattoo on diabetic mice. A painless alternative to dozens of needle pricks might prompt more patients to stay safe.