University Creates Electronic Pill To Detect Bowel Cancer

An electronic pill that will be used to detect bowel cancer on its passage through the body is the first collaboration between Glasgow University and intellectual property investors with which it struck a deal in October.

IP Group has invested £400,000 in Wireless bioDevices, which the university set up to commercialise wireless sensor technology for use in medical diagnostics.

Based on technology developed by professors Jon Cooper and David Cumming of the department of electronic and electrical engineering, the electronic pill will take measurements as it passes through the body, transmitting data via a wireless link to a small unit attached to the patient.

Potentially, the device could be used to detect a large range of important markers.

Professor Steve Beaumont, vice-principal for research and enterprise, said yesterday: “We are delighted to launch the first spin-out company under our partnership with the IP Group.

“Wireless bioDevices is based on a combination of technologies developed by our bioelectronics and microelectronics research groups with the support of our life scientists. It is an excellent example of how the university is bringing together experts from many fields to create products that can make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Nick Wood, chief executive of Wireless bioDevices, said: “The university’s technology is set to revolutionise diagnostics, making it possible to take measurements of conditions deep inside the human body. Our first product will have a major impact on diagnosing bowel diseases, and particularly bowel cancer which kills half a million people every year around the world.”