Development of a novel non-antibody based method for measuring the concentration of glycated hemoglobin in blood is proposed. Utilizing only a single measurement, the method will provide a standardized % HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin A1c) result using a commercially available portable reflectometer or spectrophotometer. Preliminary data obtained with HbA1c standards and whole blood samples containing normal and abnormal HbA1c levels demonstrate the potential of the proposed method. HbA1c measurement can provide diabetic patients an overview of their success in meeting long-term goals for controlling their blood glucose level. We propose to develop an inexpensive and simple device that will provide % HbA1c measurement as precise and accurate as instruments that are currently available.
There are more than 10 million diabetics in the United States alone, and the number is expected to grow larger-to 25.3% of the population by year 2005. The American Diabetes Association has recommended monitoring of the hemoglobin A1c level at least four times a year. The potential market for a user friendly monitoring device is very large. The proposed device is expected to provide a simple, and accurate alternative to the current techniques.
