Intellectual property portfolio builder, Tekcapital PLC (LON:TEK), has acquired the exclusive licence to a patent application for the measurement of glucose in saliva.
The licence, which has been acquired from Arizona State University, adds to the company's portfolio of patents for the non-invasive measurement of glucose.
The application describes a safe, fast and non-invasive method and device to collect and sample glucose in saliva for both human and companion animals. The bio-sensor device allows trace saliva fluid samples from a biological surface to be obtained for electrochemical analysis and the subsequent detection of analytes using disposable biosensor strips.
The directors of Tekcapital believe this breakthrough technology, if commercially successful, could replace the need for invasive blood tests repeatedly taken by diabetics.
The current standard for self-glucose monitoring technologies, used throughout the world to measure blood glucose in diabetics, is to draw a blood sample and place the blood on a strip for insertion into a glucometer.
“This is a step forward in non-invasive, glucose measurement. If commercialised successfully, this new technology could encourage patients and pet owners to measure blood sugar levels more frequently and without discomfort," said Dr Clifford Gross, executive chairman of Tekcapital.