KENNESAW, Ga. | Oct 30, 2024

Taking the next step in changing the way diabetics monitor glucose levels, Kennesaw State University assistant professor Maria Valero has been awarded a Georgia Research Alliance (GRA) grant to continue her innovative GlucoCheck project. The project looks to modify glucose monitoring for the millions affected by diabetes by offering a noninvasive alternative for blood sugar tests.

Valero’s GlucoCheck device is a ring-like sensor that uses light absorption technology to estimate glucose levels without using blood samples. It’s a user-friendly alternative to finger pricks, applying artificial intelligence to provide accurate readings in real time. The device currently surpasses traditional glucometers with up to 90% accuracy.

“I am extremely thankful for financial support provided by GRA as it will undoubtedly move us closer to bringing GlucoCheck to market,” said Valero, who teaches in Kennesaw State’s College of Computing and Software Engineering (CCSE). “It has been rewarding to see the project develop over the years, and I’m inspired by the potential it has to change the lives of millions.”

The grant represents an important step forward for the GlucoCheck project, providing essential resources to advance its development. With the funding, Valero is focused on bringing the device from a conceptual stage to store shelves. The grant will enable her team to refine the device’s design and accessibility.

Working alongside a diverse team of faculty and students across the institution, Valero said collaboration has played a key role in advancing the GlucoCheck project.

“We’re fortunate to have specialists in health science, engineering, and information technology contributing their expertise,” she said. “This teamwork not only sparks creativity but also pushes our research and development, allowing us to turn this innovative solution into reality more efficiently.”

CCSE Dean Sumanth Yenduri praised Valero’s research, underscoring the importance of teamwork, research, and technology at KSU.

“Valero’s work exemplifies the innovative spirit of Kennesaw State University,” Yenduri said. “The GlucoCheck project not only advances technology but also addresses critical healthcare challenges. We are proud to support her and others across the college who continue to push boundaries.”

As Valero continues her research, she hopes GlucoCheck educate the wider population about glucose management and its impact on health. In addition to improving individual health outcomes, the project has the potential to reduce the number of diabetes cases in the healthcare system. With cases rising all over the world, solutions like GlucoCheck could help manage the condition more effectively, leading to fewer hospitalizations and deaths.

“Our goal is to make glucose monitoring as effortless as possible, which could encourage more people to take charge of their health,” Valero said.

– Story by Raynard Churchwell

Photos by Judith Pishnery

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.