Cambridge
Dr Roman Hovorka
University of Cambridge
£700,526 Day-to-Day Management Grant
Overnight hypoglycaemia prevention in adults with Type 1 diabetes: Closing the loop.
April 2008 - November 2013
Project Summary
Dr Roman Hovorka has been funded to generate the first-generation prototype of an ‘artificial pancreas’ system using a continuous glucose monitor and an insulin pump. He will also evaluate the ability of a closed-loop system to improve glucose control at home and reduce the risk of overnight hypos in adults with Type 1 diabetes.
Background to Project
Traditionally, insulin is injected according to blood glucose levels measured with a spot glucose meter up to six times a day. However, to achieve near-normal levels of blood glucose, insulin needs to be administered more accurately. The idea of ‘closed loop’ systems is to continuously monitor changes in blood glucose and administer the correct amounts of insulin when needed.
Project aims
Dr Roman Hovorka and colleagues aim to develop and test a prototype ‘artificial pancreas’ or ‘closed-loop’ system in adults with Type 1 diabetes. The system combines a continuous glucose monitor and an insulin pump to automatically provide the right amount of insulin at the right time. Dr Hovorka and his team will evaluate the ability of the system to improve glucose control at home, reducing the risk of overnight hypos and improving overnight glucose control in adults with Type 1 diabetes.
Potential benefit to people with diabetes
The researchers anticipate that, if the artificial pancreas system can improve overnight glucose control, this will also benefit control during the day by providing more consistent fasting glucose levels. Home testing of the system will provide a better understanding of the system’s potential and is an essential first step towards its long-awaited widespread use.