Medtronic ($MDT) announced that the first patients have enrolled in the pivotal trial of its its next-generation integrated insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring system and the Predictive Low Glucose Management algorithm. Up to 84 patients will enroll in the trial at 8 centers across the U.S."Safely managing hypoglycemia without causing a rebound hyperglycemic episode (high blood sugar) is a key challenge in managing diabetes," said Dr. Ronald Brazg, professor of medicine at the University of Washington and director of one of the trial's participating centers, in a statement. "This important study leads the industry-wide effort to close the diabetes treatment loop with tools that help achieve better glycemic control."The system being tested contains a new sensor that is 80% smaller than the current Enlite sensor and features a new insulin pump design, Medtronic says.In 2013 Medtronic introduced the MiniMed 530G with Enlite, featuring the Threshold Suspend technology that can automatically stop insulin delivery under certain conditions. The new algorithm not only stops insulin delivery, but causes it to resume when glucose levels recover, Medtronic says."This study marks yet another important milestone toward the goal of an artificial pancreas. As we continue to lead the world with advances in insulin delivery, sensor technology and algorithms, we will be more able to help people with diabetes enjoy greater freedom and experience better health," said Alejandro Galindo, general manager of the intensive insulin management business, in a statement.