Researchers in France believe fuel cells could form a crucial component of the next generation of medical implants.

A new product known as a glucose biofuel cell was shown to produce energy by making use of the glucose and oxygen available in bodily fluids.

The new development incorporates a unique arrangement of two graphite discs, each containing special enzymes, which are connected with platinum wires.

Glucose and oxygen enters a dialysis bag covering the device, with the enzymes reacting to generate a current which flows out of the fuel cell through wires encased in tubes.

Study co-author Serge Cosnier, from the Universite Joseph Fourier in Grenoble, explained that the system could be used to treat conditions such as diabetes.

"In the future we are expecting to develop, for instance, implantable biosensors able to monitor the level of glucose to control the insulin pump," he said.

"The injection of insulin will be more efficient if the glucose level is detected continuously."

According to the study, a larger version of the biofuel cell could easily operate a pacemaker, while also being much smaller than the batteries currently used in them.

Mr Cosnier also noted that it could help to operate artificial organs and aid Parkinson's and Alzheimer's sufferers by controlling chemicals in the brain such as dopamine, adrenaline and glutamate.

Meanwhile, Dr Rafael Yuste, from the University of Columbia, claimed this week that ruthenium-based caged compounds could "greatly advance" research in various fields of biology.

Source:

Implanted Fuel Cell Powered by Rat's Body Fluids (15/09/10)

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