Scientists develop easy-to-use urine test for Type 2 diabetes

The report describing the paper-based device, which also could be adapted for the diagnosis and monitoring of other conditions and the environment, appears in the ACS journal Analytical Chemistry.

According to a statement, diabetes test strips seem inexpensive but the cost can be prohibitive in areas where people must choose between treatment and day-to-day necessities.

In addition, current handheld diabetes monitoring devices measure glucose levels in blood, which requires a pin-prick to a finger, something that could deter patients from taking the measurements.

To address these challenges, the researchers from VU University Amsterdam, Harvard University and the universities of Maryland and São Paulo built a newtype of glucose monitor that detects glucose levels in urine and is made from inexpensive materials, such as paper.

The device is said to consist of three electrodes, a buffer solution, a piece of paper (or nitrocellulose) and a plastic dish.

The sample is injected onto the paper with a slightly modified medical syringe and the solution moves along the paper by gravity and capillary action.