The feasibility of using microbial fuel cells technology to facilitate the diagnosis of diabetes at an early stage

Research Pillar: Healthy and Inclusive Places; Climate Action and Sustainability

Project Name/Title/Acronym: The feasibility of using microbial fuel cells technology to facilitate the diagnosis of diabetes at an early stage

Funding Body: Provost’s PhD award

Project Timeframe: 2021-2025

Key Output(s): Designing a diabetes diagnostics device able to help individuals track the state of their disease.

Project Description:

According to the World Health Organisation, approximately 350 million people worldwide have diabetes. By 2030, diabetes will be the 7th leading cause of death in the world. Early diagnosis of diabetes is critical for diabetes control and treatment however, it is very difficult to diagnose diabetes at an early stage. This is mainly due to the inconvenience of the current diabetes diagnostic tools on the market.

The aim of this project is to use microbial fuel cells to create a non-invasive diagnostic device which would allow individuals to get diagnosed early, as well as help patients track the state of their disease. This would not only allow individuals themselves to keep track of their condition, but also ensure allow healthcare professionals to access more data and therefore provide better care. The non-invasive aspect will reduce the likelihood of infection and is more suitable for young children or pregnant women.

This project is looking to reduce the amount of waste that is produced by creating a longer-lasting alternative to urinalysis treatments which is addressing the waste management and circular economy issues which falls under the 2nd and  3rd Trinityhaus Pillars – “Healthy environments” and “Sustainable and climate responsive Communities”.

Internationally, the project also supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals Shown below:

Contact details – for more information contact Zeena Wang, zewang@tcd.ie