Non-invasive glucose monitor algorithm from Know Labs achieves promising overall MARD of 11.3% in study as Gen 1 prototype is revealed
Know Labs has been working on its non-invasive blood glucose monitor for some time now and has quite strong competition in this vital and profitable field. But a couple of recent reports from the company should have those eagerly awaiting such a pain-free solution feeling a little more encouraged. Firstly, Know Labs revealed its Generation 1 prototype, which is greatly changed from the KnowU device that we have previously reported on. The glucose monitor now looks more like a mouse that would fit comfortably in the palm, and it has been designed to be portable.
Rather than using potentially painful and scarring finger-sticking methods for blood sugar level measurements, the Know Labs Gen 1 device uses the company’s Bio-RFID technology. This utilizes radio frequencies that can detect molecular signatures in the user’s tissue without requiring any invasive process. Know Labs is seeking to bring its Gen 1 prototype non-invasive glucose monitor to a level where it can be cleared by the FDA and then become commercially available to the millions of people with diabetes around the world.
Some comparison data is briefly revealed in a promotional video showing the prototype being built, and it appears that the Know Labs Gen 1 prototype blood glucose monitor can offer similar results to those of a Dexcom G6 CGM, which requires the insertion of a sensor that can be painful to some. In addition, a recent study has found that the algorithm that Know Labs has created for its non-invasive glucose monitor can produce an overall MARD (mean absolute relative difference) figure of 11.3% with a Dexcom G6 used for reference.
It is generally accepted that a continuous glucose monitor that can offer a MARD figure below 10% is good, with devices such as Abbott’s Freestyle Libre 3 getting below 7.9%. However, with Know Labs relying on a tricky non-invasive solution for its glucose monitor, this latest study offers encouraging results. According to the company, testing is already under way for the Gen 1 device and focus remains on gaining FDA clearance, but it might be some time yet before the KnowU/Gen 1 finally hits the market.
