The research team, led by Professor Liao Honggang from the College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Xiamen University, has announced that its newly developed next-generation glucose monitoring device has entered clinical trial stages.

This innovative device signifies an improvement over traditional finger-prick methods, which are often painful and time-consuming, as well as over imported continuous glucose monitors that are frequently expensive. The device offers three key advantages: a compact size, high accuracy, and cost effectiveness.

Professor Liao Honggang in the cleanroom laboratory. [Photo/WeChat account: xmu_1921]

The monitor features a coin-sized body and a hair-thin sensor. Wearing on the skin allows for real-time glucose tracking, abnormal value alerts, and seamless integration with mobile apps. The device is discreet, easily concealed under clothing or accessories.

The probe bends naturally with the skin using flexible materials, ensuring painless wear and resistance to detachment during intense physical activity. It also boasts an IP68 and dustproof rating, allowing regular use during bathing or swimming.

At the core of its technology lies a micron-level chip structure. This innovation opens possibilities for integrating multi-parameter health monitoring, such as body temperature and uric acid, into a single device.

The team overcame major technical hurdles in enzyme stability and bio-sensing sensitivity to ensure accurate readings. The device measures glucose in the 0–30 mM range with 0.1 mM sensitivity, suitable for most diabetic patients. Results appear on the user's smartphone within seconds, with customizable alert thresholds for emergency notifications like hypoglycemia.

Enhancing user experience, the device's app offers personalized glucose reports and dietary recommendations based on individual readings.

Unlike conventional imported monitors that rely on fully disposable designs with monthly consumable costs exceeding 1,000 yuan ($138.86), the device adopts a hybrid model with a reusable core module and replaceable sensor units, reducing monthly expenses to around 400 yuan.

Only the sensor and battery require routine replacement. A single battery lasts over 14 days, meaning users must perform maintenance twice a month. With nationwide adoption by just 30 percent of patients with severe diabetes, annual healthcare savings could exceed 100 billion yuan.

The device is currently being piloted in partnership with leading hospitals and provincial medical institutions. There are plans to incorporate it into regional health insurance systems to further mitigate the financial burden on patients.