Texas A&M Students Innovate Closed-Loop Insulin Pump Software

Biomedical engineering students from Texas A&M University have developed a promising closed-loop algorithm for implantable insulin pumps, potentially transforming diabetes management for patients with Type 1 diabetes. This innovative software aims to automate insulin delivery, reducing the cognitive burden faced by patients who often struggle to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

While traditional insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors have significantly improved care for many, challenges remain for those unable to achieve consistent control. Implantable insulin pumps address this issue by delivering insulin directly to the liver, yet many still require manual adjustments that can complicate care. The student team’s project seeks to minimize these demands, paving the way toward a more automated and user-friendly solution.

Students Address Diabetes Management Challenges

The team of five students undertook this project in collaboration with Medtronic MiniMed, a leading medical technology company. Their goal was to create a system that operates autonomously, allowing for continuous communication between the insulin pump and glucose monitor. “The pump calculates if your blood sugar is too high and if we need to lower it, then gives an insulin dose,” explained Jacob Kimbrough, one of the team members who lives with Type 1 diabetes. “If you’re low, the algorithm is going to back off on the basal rate to try and bring your blood sugar back up.”

With a focus on enhancing patient autonomy, the algorithm eliminates the need for frequent manual input, which can be both mentally taxing and prone to error. Kimbrough’s personal experience with the condition informed the team’s approach, as he understood the daily complexities of diabetes management. “This is what I deal with on a daily basis,” he noted, emphasizing the practical implications of their work.

Industry Support and Future Development

The project has garnered attention from Medtronic MiniMed, which views it as a valuable step toward more advanced automated diabetes care. Gary Dulak, senior director of new ventures at Medtronic, praised the students for their innovative thinking and commitment to improving patient experiences. “The team brought remarkable energy, passion, and unique ideas, which were inspiring to us,” Dulak stated. “Their commitment to Medtronic’s mission of meeting the patient where they are in their journey was evident in their dedication to the project.”

Although the algorithm is still in its prototype stage, Medtronic plans to further develop and refine the technology. The company believes that the foundation laid by the students could lead to significant advancements in the field of diabetes management.

As the landscape of automated care evolves, there is hope that future devices will reduce the daily decision-making burden faced by patients. For many living with Type 1 diabetes, increased automation could lead to less stress, fewer calculations, and an enhanced ability to engage in daily life without the constant worry of managing their condition. This project not only reflects a significant technical achievement but also underscores the importance of understanding patients’ needs in the development of medical technologies.