Biosensors for in vivo glucose measurement: can we cross the experimental stage

The development of in vivo working glucose sensors needs two decades, so far. The availability of long term functional implantable biosensors for continuous glucose measurings is a basic prerequisite for the individualized optimum insulin treatment of diabetics. Enzymatic electrochemical sensors are described which realize a functional stability over more than 2 years in vitro, however their function in vivo is limited due to certain bioincompatibility expressed by inflammation of the surrounding tissue, exudates, and immun reactions. The paper reflects an overview concerning different sensor covering materials used as more or less suitable diffusion membranes. From experimental studies in animals and human volunteers conclusions are drawn for further developmental steps of biosensors for in vivo use and for the applicability of glucose sensors for transient diagnostic purposes and as a basis for glucose controlled therapeutic measures. The results demonstrate that further progress aimed at long term biostability of implanted biosensors needs to solve technological problems and the serial production of sensors with really comparable qualities as a prerequisite for clinical trials.