Wireless implant removes blood sugar to treat diabetes and obesity

A wireless electronic implant that removes excess glucose directly from the bloodstream has shown promise as a drug-free treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity in a landmark study, according to scientists. Developed by bioengineers at ETH Zurich, the device uses an electrically powered catalyst to convert blood sugar into gluconate, which the kidneys flush out in urine. In mouse trials, the implant normalized elevated blood sugar within 60 to 90 minutes and led to up to 10 percent body weight loss over six weeks. Independent experts urged caution, noting that human kidneys' ability to process gluconate remains unverified and could disrupt acid-base balance or deplete electrolytes. The team plans to test the implant in larger animals before pursuing human clinical trials.