The insulin Nanopump, developed by Debiotech and industrialized by ST, represents the first use of microfluidic MEMS technology in diabetes treatment. Functional samples have already been produced and the two partners expect that a fully industrialized product, in the form of a disposable cartridge, will be available in selected markets in 2008. Debiotech will remain responsible for the commercialization of the product through its licenses with major players in the medical device market.

The industrialization efforts will leverage STMicroelectronics' growing experience in the biomedical market. Other bio-tech programs within ST's Microfluidic Division include the In-Check lab-on-chip platform, currently being applied to the detection of sepsis and Avian flu.


"ST's increasing focus on applying its semiconductor manufacturing processes and growing experience in microfluidic biotech applications affords us the potential to improve lives for millions of people around the world," said Anton Hofmeister, Group Vice President and General Manager of ST's Microfluidic Division. "Working with Debiotech, a leading developer of innovative biomedical applications, we are committed to the industrialization of the insulin Nanopump that aspires to push the boundaries of diabetes treatment."

"This collaboration with ST represents a major step in manufacturing of the Nanopump to make it available to a broad market at a cost compatible with a unique disposable use. ST is a world leader in MEMS manufacturing and we are very excited to be working together to bring a real innovation to diabetic patients, offering a new way to treat one of the most severe diseases of our century," said Frederic Neftel, MD, President & CEO of Debiotech SA.

Additional information
There are almost 250 million people affected by diabetes worldwide and the number is expected to grow over the next decade due to population growth, ageing and life style. Without proper treatment, diabetes can lead to cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage, and ultimately death. Diabetes is a leading cause of death in most developed countries.

The market for insulin pump therapy is growing rapidly: according to HSBC1, the worldwide market for insulin pump therapy is expected to grow from $800 million in 2004 to $1.6 billion by 2009.

1 HSBC survey, 2005

About Debiotech
Debiotech specializes in the research and development of innovative medical devices in the field of implantable and external drug delivery systems, using micromechanics, nanotechnologies and MEMS, for the treatment of severe diseases (such as diabetes, renal failure, cardiovascular diseases and cancer) as well as novel technologies for the delivery of vaccines, diagnostic and imaging devices.

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