E.Coli bacterium is being used as a primary part of tiny, implantable drug dispensers. The implantable dispensers can take the place of repeated insulin or chemotherapy injections and can also provide blood samples without using needles.

Several methods are already underway to create smaller implants. One such method uses microelectromechanical systems with gears the size of a grain of pollen. However, the systems have very high internal pressure, which causes them to leak.

Nonmechanical designs are another method, which use electrical voltage to move fluid. However, these devices can only dispense particular drugs because they rely on electrical properties of the fluid.

Researchers then turned to E. coli bacterium as an option, calling it "the world’s smallest living motor." The bacteria, which naturally spin either clockwise or counterclockwise, are modified so that they all rotate in the same direction. When they are planted in the dispenser their spin pushes the drug out of the dispenser.

The E.coli bacterium, widely known for its potentially deadly effects, has also been genetically altered to be harmless in the body. Still, some believe it will be a challenge to get the device approved by regulatory agencies.

Another challenge researchers face is how to seal the device. When the device is open the cells can live, however, when it is closed the cells begin to die.

Nonetheless, researchers estimate that a working prototype will be ready within two years, and suggest that it will be available commercially in five to 10 years.

Wired News February 28, 2003

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

It seems likely that these devices, combined with their steady release of drugs, would be highly disruptive to your body’s natural chemistry. The solution here is to take control of your health and avoid the need to implant a drug dispenser in your body. One step in this direction is to limit, or completely avoid, sugars and grains, which are converted to sugar in the body. Americans’ excessive consumption of carbohydrates in the form of grains, starches and sweets is responsible for many of the chronic diseases, including diabetes and cancer, facing the nation. Eating too many sugars and grains will lead to high insulin levels in your body, which not only contribute to excess weight and obesity but also to suppression of the immune system, depression, allergies and digestive disorders. Eliminating these foods will help you to normalize your insulin levels and stay healthy. For times when your schedule does not allow you to prepare whole foods, Living Fuel is a healthy alternative that will actually help to regulate your blood sugar. Living Fuel Rx provides essential nutrients in a convenient powder form, and it will not cause an insulin response. Though whole foods are best, if you are faced with only unhealthy hotel food or fast food, consider Living Fuel Rx instead.