Development of the Implantable Glucose Sensor: What Are the Prospects and Why Is It Taking So Long?

The development of an implantable glucose sensor for use in diabetes was first suggested in the 1960s (1–3). The sensor would provide an alternative to the present discrete methods of glucose determination that are based on intermittent blood sampling. Continuous glucose sensing would be particularly important in the detection and management of hypoglycemia. It would also allow early detection of hyperglycemia and provide a basis for insulin administration at more appropriate dosages and timing or for automatic insulin delivery from a pump. An implantable glucose sensor could also be used in parallel with other existing or potential forms of insulin replacement, such as transplantation or hybrid islet devices.