They create a smart ring that measures glucose, ketones and other biomarkers

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) have developed an intelligent ring capable of measuring glucose, ketones, and other biochemical markers through sweat. This innovative wearable device represents a significant advancement in health monitoring technology, offering continuous, real-time analysis of multiple biomarkers linked to metabolism and overall well-being. The device, still in its experimental phase, can detect glucose, ketones, vitamin C, uric acid, lactate, and alcohol levels simultaneously. According to the researchers, it is the first fully integrated smart ring designed for daily biochemical monitoring. The breakthrough was published in July in the scientific journal Nature Communications, highlighting efforts to overcome limitations of current consumer devices, which typically track physiological parameters such as heart rate, temperature, or movement but lack molecular-level insights. The key innovation lies in the ring’s ability to extract sweat passively through a hydrogel osmotic system embedded within the ring. This method allows for non-invasive collection of small amounts of fluid without requiring physical exertion. The collected sweat flows through a microchannel to a matrix of electrochemical sensors, which measure concentrations of various substances. Data processed by the ring's onboard electronics is transmitted wirelessly to a mobile application, enabling users to monitor their health metrics in real time. Miniaturization is another standout feature of the device. Inside the compact ring, all components, sensors, extraction and circulation systems, electronics, wireless transmission, and a rechargeable flexible battery made of silver-zinc oxide, are housed together. The battery provides up to 12 hours of continuous operation per charge, while the electronic circuitry is smaller than a quarter. The prototype casing was manufactured using 3D-printed polymer, showcasing the potential for scalable production. One of the most promising applications of this technology is in diabetes management. In trials involving healthy volunteers and individuals with type 1 diabetes, measurements of glucose obtained via the ring showed strong correlation with commercial continuous glucose monitors. Similar results were observed with ketone readings compared to blood-based testing methods. The system also employs individual calibration factors to convert sensor signals into concentration values, allowing for personalized tracking of metabolic trends. Beyond diabetes, the simultaneous measurement of glucose and ketones could provide valuable insights into how metabolism responds to meals, fasting, or physical activity. Lactate levels might offer information related to exercise intensity, while uric acid measurements could reflect certain metabolic processes. Monitoring vitamin C and alcohol levels opens new possibilities in nutrition and lifestyle studies. Conceptually, the device aims to create a dynamic biochemical profile of each user, rather than focusing on isolated parameters. Despite these advancements, the device remains in the research prototype stage. While the study demonstrates the feasibility of the technology and reports stable personalized calibration over approximately two months, further clinical trials are necessary to establish its performance, reproducibility, and practicality under everyday conditions. These tests will determine whether the device can transition from laboratory success to real-world medical utility.