Science: One Step Closer Towards the Artificial Pancreas

One step toward an artificial pancreas, Medtronic insulin pump passes key test.

This “smart pump” by Medtronic Inc., is currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to see if it can be programmed to mimic a real pancreas which constantly adjusts insulin levels.

The pump which is already available in Europe is aimed at Type 1 diabetics who must inject insulin several times a day.

The pump monitors the blood sugar levels and is programmed to shut down if the blood sugar levels drop to low, such as when people are sleeping. Too much insulin could induce a come or even death.

The Medtronic pump is a major step toward the development of an artificial pancreas.