Safety and tolerability of a skin sensor for glucose and lactate
Many people with diabetes already wear small skin sensors on their arms to track blood sugar. Researchers at the University of Liverpool have created a new sensor that tracks both sugar (glucose) and another chemical called lactate at the same time. Lactate levels can show doctors if someone is becoming seriously unwell. This early trial wants to check whether the new device is safe, comfortable to wear, and gives accurate readings. The study is looking for 15 healthy volunteers aged 18 to 45. Participants will wear a sensor on their skin for either 8 or 24 hours while resting at a clinic in Liverpool. Some will have small blood tests to compare with the sensor's readings. While volunteers will not get direct medical benefit, their time will help develop better early warning tools for hospital care.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Many people are familiar with small, patch-like sensors worn on the back of the arm by people with diabetes. These devices monitor blood sugar without needing repeated finger-prick tests. Now, researchers at the University of Liverpool are testing a new type of sensor that uses tiny needles to measure two things at once: glucose (sugar) and lactate. Lactate is a natural chemical in your body that can rise quickly when you are severely ill or your tissues are not getting enough oxygen.
In hospital settings, tracking both glucose and lactate could give doctors and nurses an early warning if a patient's health starts to go downhill. Catching these changes early means doctors can step in faster and check whether treatments are working. Before this device can be tested on patients in hospital wards, doctors must first make sure it is safe, gentle on the skin, and accurate.
This trial is being run at the NIHR Liverpool Clinical Research Facility. It aims to see how well the sensor works on healthy volunteers. By comparing the sensor's results with standard blood tests, researchers can find out if the new technology is reliable enough for everyday medical care.
Key takeaways
- Researchers are testing a new dual-measuring skin sensor for glucose and lactate.
- The study needs 15 healthy volunteers aged 18 to 45.
- The trial takes place at the NIHR Liverpool Clinical Research Facility.
- Sensors will be worn for either 8 or 24 hours to test comfort and accuracy.
- Taking part is completely voluntary and carries low, manageable risks.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to healthy men and women aged between 18 and 45. To join, you must be in good general health and able to visit the research clinic in Liverpool for the tests. Female volunteers must have a negative pregnancy test before taking part.
You cannot take part if you have any long-term medical conditions, bleeding problems, or a history of skin conditions such as eczema or skin infections. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy during the study are also unable to join.
Additionally, you cannot participate if you are allergic to any parts of the sensor, are currently being tested for cancer, or have taken part in another clinical trial within the past 12 weeks.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am aged between 18 and 45 years old.
- I consider myself to be in good overall health.
- I do not have any long-term medical conditions.
- I do not have a history of sensitive skin, eczema, or frequent skin infections.
- I am not pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant during the trial.
- I have not taken part in another clinical trial in the last 12 weeks.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will be placed into one of three small groups of five people. Group 1 will wear a 'blank' sensor for 8 hours to test how the materials feel on the skin without taking measurements. Group 2 will wear an active sensor for 8 hours to measure glucose and lactate. Group 3 will wear an active sensor for a full 24 hours.
During the study, you will stay at the research facility while the patch is on your arm. If you are in Group 2 or 3, staff will take regular blood samples to compare with the sensor's readings. You do not need to take any new medicines. Once the sensor is taken off, staff will carefully check your skin for any redness or soreness. The whole trial takes place between September and November 2026.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- NIHR Liverpool Clinical Research FacilityCity onlyLiverpool, England
Common questions
What is a microneedle sensor?
It is a small patch containing tiny needles that sit gently in the very top layer of your skin. It measures chemicals in your body fluid without needing a deep needle into a vein.
Does fitting the sensor hurt?
Because microneedles are very small, most people feel only a mild pinch or slight discomfort when they are put on.
Will I be paid for taking part?
Clinical trials often offer travel expenses or a small payment for your time. Contact the study team to find out their exact policy.
Do I have to stay overnight?
Volunteers in the 8-hour groups will not need to stay overnight. Those wearing the sensor for 24 hours may need an overnight stay at the clinic.
Can I leave the study early if I want to?
Yes. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you can stop at any point without needing an excuse.
How to find out more
Greta Wood
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.