Towards an ultra low power chemically inspired electronic beta cell for diabetes

In this paper we present a biologically inspired circuit capable of implementing the membrane potential behaviour of the pancreatic beta cell. This is important as it is correlated with insulin release which is required for regulating blood glucose at a healthy level. Dysfunction of these cells is the main cause of various forms of diabetes. A nano-power glucose biosensor is used to provide a chemical input to the silicon based beta-cell. Measured results of up to 25 mM of glucose concentration are shown, as well as bursting behaviour from the circuit which matches well with physiological results