UM researchers are developing a ground-breaking approach to diabetes management with the development of non-invasive glucose biosensors made from natural egg white. This innovation could provide an affordable and painless alternative to traditional glucose monitoring, improving accessibility for millions worldwide.
"Our goal is to create a glucose monitoring system that is not only effective but also accessible," says Dr. Wen Zhong, Professor of Biosystems Engineering in the Price Faculty of Engineering and lead researcher on the project. "By using egg white, a widely available and sustainable material, we can significantly reduce costs while maintaining high accuracy in glucose detection."
A painless and affordable solution
Current glucose monitoring systems either require invasive finger pricks or rely on costly continuous glucose monitors, both of which pose challenges for individuals managing diabetes.
This research project introduces a noninvasive solution: hydrogel-based biosensors derived from egg white. These biosensors are designed to be integrated into wearable platforms, such as wristbands and smart shoes, where they analyze glucose levels through sweat. This eliminates the need for blood samples, ensuring real-time, accurate readings.
The innovation has attracted the interest of Avriel International, a Winnipeg-based shoe design and development company specializing in smart footwear for diabetics. Avriel is interested in incorporating non-invasive glucose sensor into their smart shoes and wristbands, since no such sensor currently exists on the market. They are partnering and validating the prototypes, marking a major step toward commercialization.
A prototype of a Smart Shoe Sole (left) and the mold for the shoe sole (right), as developed by researchers at Red River College.
Egg white, a sustainable and nutrient-rich material, has long been used in the food industry but remains underutilized in biomedical applications. Its unique thermal, electrical, and fluid properties make it an ideal candidate for biosensor development.
By leveraging egg white's potential, this project advances patient care and medical innovation while opening new economic opportunities to expand the use of egg white in high-value medical products.
Bridging healthcare gaps with smart wearable technology
The impact of these biosensors could extend far beyond innovation. Millions of people with diabetes struggle with the high costs and discomfort of glucose monitoring. A cost-effective, 3D-printable, and self-powered sensor could bridge these healthcare gaps, offering a sustainable and inclusive solution.
"Accessibility and sustainability are at the core of our research," says Zhong. "Our biosensors are designed to be self-powered using green energy harvesting, reducing dependence on disposable batteries and minimizing electronic waste."
The project is supported by Research Manitoba - Innovation Proof-of-Concept Grant Program and Egg Farmers Canada, helping bring this technology closer to real-world application.
As this technology moves closer to commercialization, it has the potential to revolutionize healthcare accessibility and diabetes management ensuring that glucose monitoring is no longer a painful, expensive burden.
Research at the University of Manitoba is partially supported by funding from the Government of Canada Research Support Fund.
