An alternative to GLP-1? The implant that reduces glucose and weight without medications

GLP-1-based medications have changed the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, two metabolic problems that often appear together and have given rise to the term 'diabesity'. Now, researchers at ETH Zurich and the University of Basel in Switzerland have tested a completely different strategy: an implantable electronic device capable of removing excess glucose from the blood without resorting to medications.

The device, called ECHO (Electrocatalytic Closed Loop Health Optimization), has so far been tested on obese mice with type 2 diabetes. The results are striking: it managed to restore normal blood glucose levels in one hour and, after six weeks of treatment, the animals also experienced a reduction in their body weight. However, this is a proof of concept in animals and it has not been demonstrated that the system can replace GLP-1 in humans.

The key to this technology lies in electrocatalysis, a procedure that uses electrode surfaces to drive chemical reactions capable of transforming glucose into other compounds. The implantable device developed by the scientists works wirelessly and uses a platinum-coated gold catalyst to convert circulating glucose into gluconate, which can subsequently be eliminated by the kidneys.

Selective glucose withdrawal

ECHO is connected to a continuous glucose monitor using a smartphone. When it detects that blood glucose exceeds a previously set threshold, the device automatically activates. In this way, it allows glucose to be selectively removed without the need to administer insulin or other external medications.

In experiments conducted on obese mice with type 2 diabetes, wireless activation of the implant at low power—0.75 volts and 10 milliamps—returned blood glucose levels to normal values ​​within an hour. At the same time, the system modified the energy source used by the body, which went from consuming glucose to using fat.

The effects were not limited to glycemic control. After six weeks of treatment, the researchers observed a decrease in the animals' body weight and triglyceride levels. At the same time, circulating free fatty acids and ketone bodies increased, changes related to this modification in the use of energy sources.

Another result observed during the experiment was the absence of detectable episodes of hypoglycemia. The researchers also did not detect adverse effects on the physiological function, inflammation or behavior of the animals during the period studied.