Malaysian national applied research and development agency, MIMOS, is set to unveil the world’s first clinically-tested non-invasive glucometer for blood glucose screening.

The new non-intrusive and non-destructive device, GlucoSenz, evaluates the near-infrared (NIRS) obtained in absorbance mode through the user’s thumb spectra, by applying chemometrics methods.

GlucoSenz uses photonics, electronics and software technologies for detection, analysis and prediction of blood glucose level from the blood capillaries of the human thumb without piercing the skin.

MIMOS R&D senior director Mohd Shahiman Sulaiman said: “The launch of GlucoSenz marks a huge step forward for MIMOS’ Advanced Electrical and Electronics division, particularly the photonics R&D team.

“At this stage, the solution can bring a significant impact to healthcare providers, where safety and economics are of paramount importance. A non-invasive, non-intrusive glucometer will protect healthcare personnel from possible occupational exposure to infected blood.”

When the thumb is placed on the thumb module of the device, a light will be projected. A fibre-optic probe that guides the light to a detector will collect the reflected light.

The LCD display projects the blood glucose level result in mmol/l after the light spectrum is analysed by a built-in software module.

MIMOS’ photonics technology laboratory carried out a seven-year research and development on GlucoSenz.

The Malaysia Medical Device Association; Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cyberjaya University College of Medical Science (CUCMS) and the UKM Medical Centre (HUKM) granted ethical approval for the device.

Shahiman noted that works with regard to miniaturising the device are currently underway. The first mini prototype is expected to be trialled by the middle of next year.

Shahiman further added: “GlucoSenz would potentially replace conventional glucometers due to its ease of use and high accuracy. Countries with high rates of diabetes and obesity should keep a watch on this product as it has a huge market potential.”

The market roll-out of GlucoSenz is expected by the end of next year.