What potential applications could biofuel cells have in the medical field?

  • Context: Medical 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Ryan_m_b
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Cell
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the innovative applications of biofuel cells in the medical field, specifically their ability to generate electricity using glucose and oxygen at body concentrations. Researchers have successfully demonstrated a biofuel cell implanted in a living animal, paving the way for future medical implants such as sensors, drug delivery devices, and artificial organs. Within the next decade or two, these biofuel cells could revolutionize medical technology, allowing devices to be powered simply by consuming glucose-rich foods. Additionally, advancements by companies like Sony indicate potential uses in consumer electronics, such as laptops and mobile phones.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of biofuel cell technology
  • Knowledge of glucose metabolism in biological systems
  • Familiarity with medical implant devices
  • Awareness of current advancements in renewable energy sources
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the latest developments in biofuel cell technology
  • Explore the integration of biofuel cells in medical devices
  • Investigate the role of glucose in energy generation for implants
  • Learn about the environmental impact of biofuel cells compared to traditional energy sources
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for biomedical engineers, medical device developers, researchers in renewable energy, and anyone interested in the intersection of biotechnology and consumer electronics.

Ryan_m_b
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
Insights Author
Messages
5,963
Reaction score
727
This is a very cool development. I'd be excited to see what other applications this could have.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-15305579

BBC News said:
Their gadget, called a biofuel cell, uses glucose and oxygen at concentrations found in the body to generate electricity.

They are the first group in the world to demonstrate their device working while implanted in a living animal. If all goes to plan, within a decade or two, biofuel cells may be used to power a range of medical implants, from sensors and drug delivery devices to entire artificial organs. All you'll need to do to power them up is eat a candy bar, or drink a coke.
 
Biology news on Phys.org
I'm heartless, I guess, and I find this application a lot more exiting:

Implants aren't the only place you may find bio fuel cells in the future. The electronics giant Sony recently announced that it had created a biofuel cell fuelled with glucose and water that was capable of powering an MP3 player. "In 10 years time you may see bio fuel cells in laptops and mobile phones," said Prof Willner.

The prospect of getting power directly from sugar without the intervening step of fermenting it into alcohol is pretty amazing. I hope this goes somewhere.
 
Maybe it can be a weight loss device.
 

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
10K