Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh describe a wearable biosensor that detects antibodies in interstitial fluid in 10 minutes without a blood draw. The work appears in the journal Analytical Chemistry. Alexander Star led the research and Amir Amiri is first author on the paper.
The team built two sensors by attaching viral antigens to carbon nanotubes. The nanotubes conduct electricity and when a matching antibody binds, the electrical properties change and the device signals the antibody. The sensors use only a half volt and are just 2.6 square millimeters.
Tests by Pitt Medicine’s dermatology department showed the sensors are nine orders of magnitude more sensitive than common clinical tests such as ELISA. Researchers are exploring pairing the sensors with painless microneedle arrays that reach interstitial fluid without touching nerves. Possible uses include detecting infections and monitoring vaccine response, and continuous monitoring similar to glucose monitors.
Difficult words
- antibody — A protein that helps fight infections.antibodies
- biosensor — Devices that detect biological information.biosensors
- sensitive — Able to detect small amounts or changes.
- diagnostics — Tests and methods to identify diseases.
- customized — Made specially for an individual or group.
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Discussion questions
- How might quick diagnostics change healthcare?
- What are the benefits of using wearable technology in medicine?
- In what ways could customized treatments improve patient outcomes?
