The long-term goal of this project is to develop an implantable enzymatic-electro-chemical sensor utilizing glucose oxidase housed in a micro-textured cell with ion textured surfaces. These ion surfaces allow alterations in the fibrous capsule formation; the alterations permit intimate contact with the tissue vasculature to the exclusion of the fibrous capsule. The sensing element is constructed with an exclusion membrane system, bibulous film with enzyme solution and platinum catalytic surface, thus combining unique surface micro-structuring with a rechargeable enzyme system.During Phase I a prototype module will be tested for feasibility of fabricating a sensor module with hollow, metal-coated micropillar structures. Phase II will allow for characterization and refinement of the enzyme system with small aniinal studies. Issues such as enzyme stability, membrane exclusion properties, bonding, biocompatibility, response time, and linearity will be characterized in in vitro and in vivo models.This sensor will provide more than 2 million insulin dependent diabetics with the fine dynamic control required when using an artificial beta cell. In addition, basic tissue interaction with its implantation and control of the soft tissue biologic interface can be directly applied to a broad range of implants and their design.National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMSD)
