Cambridge scientists have revealed that the blood sugar can be regulated in children with Type 1 diabetes with the help of an artificial pancreas.

They found this through a trial that the combination, of 'real time' sensor measuring the levels of glucose with a pump helping in the delivery of insulin, can boost blood sugar control overnight.

The Lancet study showed that this device considerably reduced the risks of blood sugar levels dropping dangerously low.

This study has been counted as a step forward by experts because Type 1 diabetes is a chronic, life threatening condition, wherein the pancreas stops the production of insulin. The hormone, insulin, regulates blood sugar levels.

The study used the glucose monitoring system and the insulin pump which are already widely used and commercially available.

Researchers used them in a 'closed loop' system by developing a sophisticated algorithm to calculate the appropriate amount of insulin to deliver based on the real-time glucose readings. This system monitors the patient's condition and delivers the treatment accordingly.

After achieving this they measured how efficiently the artificial pancreas system controlled glucose levels in comparison to the children's regular continuous pump. This pump has the ability to deliver insulin at preselected rates.