Lilly studying how dogs sense diabetes in humans

PHOTOS

Click on image to view.

DISCUSS

Comments Comment on this story

INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis-based drugmaker Eli Lilly and Co. wants to find out how dogs sense diabetes in people.

The drug company is studying how hypoglycemia alert dogs sense low blood sugar in humans. The Indianapolis Star reported Monday the company will work with the Indiana Canine Assistance Network to find an answer.

Lilly tells the Star its scientists are investigating whether dogs' sharp sense of smell allow them to detect changes in human chemistry. Lilly medical director Dr. Dana Hardin says the study could be used to help train dogs to detect drops in blood sugar.

Lilly is a top producer of insulin and diabetes treatments. The company's study began in June.