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Caltech biosensors allow health monitoring
Engineers at the Caltech Institute have developed a new generation of biosensors. They make it possible to analyse a person’s health through their sweat. This innovation is a major step forward in the field of personalised medicine and the study of individual body characteristics.
The biosensors are based on inkjet printing technology, which simplifies the creation of nanoparticles. As a result, scientists have been able to develop sensors that analyse the composition of sweat. Such devices are designed to regularly monitor biomarkers, including:
- hormone levels;
- vitamin monitoring;
- drug levels in the blood.
Researchers have already successfully tested the sensors at a medical centre in California. During the tests, the devices analysed drug levels in patients undergoing chemotherapy. The biosensors also monitored metabolite levels in COVID-19 patients.
Wei Gao from the development team noted that the sensors were highly effective. They provided the ability to track drug concentrations in the body in real time. As a result of the continuous monitoring, the patients received the required drug dose in a timely manner.
Features of the technology
The key feature of the technology is cubic nanoparticles, which have a core and a shell. Their creation takes place in several stages:
- Formation of a polymer structure that encapsulates the target molecule. This could be a vitamin or another element.
- Once the structure is created, the molecule is extracted, and its imprints remain on the polymer.
- The core of the particles is nickel hexacyanoferrate (NiHCF). The reaction occurs when sweat interacts with it and forms an electrical voltage. Depending on the concentration of certain elements, NiHCF is oxidised or reduced.
Key indicators for the organ
The scientists’ development is important from the point of view of the uniqueness of the sensors. The technology makes it possible to use different nanoparticles to monitor a variety of indicators. Each element is responsible for a specific substance. For example, researchers have already created biosensors that monitor kidney health. These devices regularly monitor key indicators for the organ, including:
- vitamin C levels;
- amino acids;
- creatinine;
- tryptophan.
The device looks like a patch, is not uncomfortable to wear and does not feel on the skin. Scientists have also developed a version of the sensor that is placed under the skin. This makes it possible to monitor drug levels in the body. Because of the stability of the nanoparticle core, the sensor can be used for measurements over a long period of time.
Caltech’s invention has already attracted the interest of several companies that are willing to invest in the device’s production. It is worth noting that the demand for biotechnological solutions has increased significantly in recent years. This is due to the importance of transforming the healthcare system towards a more personalised approach. In addition, technological advances are driving the development of new devices capable of analysing body data. This opens up new opportunities to improve the treatment of various diseases.