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An implant designed to warn of the risk of heart attack, abnormal blood sugar
levels or drug abuse has been developed by Lockheed Martin and the University of
Tennessee (WO 00/33065). The “bioreporter” implant is made from cells that
produce a green fluorescent protein when triggered by certain chemicals in the
body. An optical sensor linked to a miniature radio transmitter sends out a
signal that triggers an alarm outside the body. People with diabetes could use
the device to monitor blood sugar levels. Or enzymes associated with blood
clotting could be monitored to signal a risk of heart attack. The technique
could also be use to detect drug taking by prisoners.