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A new ‘smart’ insulin, which is being trialled by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, could revolutionise the way diabetics manage their condition.
The new ‘smart’ insulin works by circulating around the body and only activates when blood sugar levels get too high.
Type 1 diabetics manage their condition by regularly checking their blood sugar levels and use insulin injections to ensure their blood sugar levels do not get too high. A ‘smart’ insulin could make the process of managing and treating blood sugar levels much more straightforward for diabetics.
Poorly managed diabetes can result in serious complications for a patient, including hypoglycaemia, blindness or amputation.
The treatment is currently being tested on mice, but there are plans to begin human trials very soon.
Sharon Banga, a senior clinical negligence solicitor based in Thompsons Solicitors’ Birmingham office, said: “Diabetes affects millions of people across the UK and type 1 diabetes, can prove difficult to manage with sufferers having to take daily blood glucose tests and insulin injections when necessary.
“The consequences of poorly managed diabetes can have a severe and long-term impact on the health and well-being of an individual. We welcome any medical development which will helps support improved diabetes management for patients.
'While ‘smart insulin’ is clearly a long way off being available to patients, the prospect of such a drug which could potentially save patients from serious complications, is exiting.”
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