Over 50 years ago, scientists discovered the ability to externally control blood glucose regulation for individuals with type 1 diabetes. Since then, researchers in the field of diabetes management have dreamt of creating a closed-loop system – a combined glucose sensor, control algorithm and insulin infusion device – to effectively act as an “artificial pancreas” for people with diabetes.
Today, we can see technology approaching that apex: Major players in medtech have tossed their hats in the ring, and studies are underway worldwide as developers aim to be the 1st to provide a fully functioning artificial pancreas to people suffering from diabetes.
Medtronic is leading the pack with its MiniMed 670G, which was the 1st hybrid closed-loop system to win FDA approval, but close behind is Bigfoot Biomedical, led by homebrew artificial pancreas developer Bryan Mazlish. And there are other companies that could give Medtronic and Bigfoot a run for their money, too.
Here are 7 major medtech players looking to revolutionize diabetes treatment with their own closed-loop artificial pancreas systems.