Spectroscopy represents a versatile approach to sensing by analysing the interaction between light and matter.

Spectroscopy analyses how properties of electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared or ultraviolet, changes after interacting with a sample or system.

There are several spectroscopic techniques that can be used for sensing. However, there are advantages and disadvantages so it is important to choose the most appropriate technique for the application.

For example, absorption spectroscopy (above) analyses the spectrum of light transmitted through a sample.

In other words, absorption spectroscopy allows you to measure the absorption of electromagnetic radiation due to the interaction with the sample or system.

There are other forms of spectroscopy, such as emission spectroscopy - spectrum emitted from a sample - and elastic scattering/reflection spectroscopy - spectrum reflected by a sample.

Spectroscopy has several drawbacks when it is used to measure within the human body.

Many factors - such as skin thickness, skin tone, hydration levels - can affect the accuracy and reliability of measurements when using spectroscopy.

In the case of non-invasive glucose monitoring, spectroscopy always looked like the most likely solution to succeed, but these factors have proven to be too large of a technical challenge to overcome.

In 2021, a BBC article discussed pulse oximeters, which use similar techniques to monitor blood oxygen saturation, were less effective when used by people with darker skin tones. More recently, 25 attorney generals are asking FDA to improve pulse oximetry tech for darker skin.

The first application for NIQS’ revolutionary technology is non-invasive glucose monitoring.

Combining our novel sensing technique with our proprietary sensing material (above) enables us to determine glucose concentrations without using needles or extracting blood samples for testing.

NIQS’ recent efforts culminated in a handheld-sized prototype.

This first-generation device demonstrated a 95.3% measurement accuracy (across 0-450mg/dL) in an ex-vivo study using porcine (pig) skin. Our focus now is moving into in-vivo studies to demonstrate the device’s accuracy.

Our goal is to provide accessible and user-friendly solutions that encourage frequent glucose measurements.

NIQS aims to support better management practices via easier measurements, which will reduce the likelihood of complications and reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and healthcare providers, such as the NHS.

Ultimately, more effective management technologies will help to provide people with better glycaemic control, greater freedom in their day-to-day lives, and a greater peace of mind.