Artifical pancreas developed in UK could be helping diabetic patients in two years

A “BIONIC” pancreas could aid hundreds of thousands of diabetes patients within two years, say UK experts.

It would monitor blood glucose levels and adjust insulin doses automatically.

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The pancreas produces insulin to manage blood sugar and turn it into energy. But those with type 1 diabetes need to inject insulin daily, below, as their organ has been damaged by the disease.

The portable device, developed by scientists at Cambridge University, could mean less chance of blindness, amputations or heart disease.

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The amount of insulin the body needs varies daily, with finger prick tests done up to ten times a day.

In the artificial pancreas, the blood mo­n­i­tor and insulin pump are in contact constantly, adjusting hormone levels through the day.

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Researchers led by Dr Roman Hovorka said the device worked well in trials. They are also keen to ensure it cannot be hacked.

Dr Elizabeth Robertson, of Diabetes UK, said: “The artificial pancreas has the potential to transform lives.”