Now, smartphones can be used to check glucose levels

The researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur have developed a unique system where smartphones can be used to test glucose levels in patients to provide quick, and easy-to-access testing results.

The system connects a Paper-based analytical device to any smartphone using an Android app, which allows for the detection of the sample for glucose (with a concentration range of 10−40 mM).

Dr Ankur Gupta, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Jodhpur and one of the authors of the study explains, “Smartphones offer seamless integration with other technologies and platforms. The ability to connect the smartphone-based spot detection framework to a larger network or database can facilitate remote monitoring, data storage, and sharing of results. This connectivity can be crucial for healthcare professionals or researchers.”

IIT Jodhpur’s glucose testing system details
Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) are portable devices that have revolutionised point-of-need testing and can quickly assess biochemical samples. The device comes with a lab-based functionalized biodegradable paper that alters its hue based on the level and amount of glucose present. By connecting it to a smartphone, the researchers have made the entire process of tracking glucose levels even faster and more personalised.

This device is aimed to be developed for the personal use of the public. It can provide on-the-spot glucose testing results without requiring technical or sophisticated laboratory settings. Additionally, it is designed to be cost-effective and biodegradable, with the current cost of it at only ~ Rs. 10 in the lab. The team hopes to further make it even cheaper during mass production, at Rs. 5.

A major hindrance when it comes to PADs is that they need specific light conditions to work. However, this system developed by the researchers completely does away with that disadvantage and allows for the PAD to work, and transmit information to smartphones under nearly all possible light conditions. Shiksha