A team of researchers from the University of Dallas, in collaboration with EnLiSense LLC, has created a new sensor that can be used on smartwatches, fitness aids, and medical equipment. The sensor can detect two biomarkers in human sweat that indicate whether the person carrying the device is in the early stages of influenza or COVID-19.
The sensor can identify two biomarkers, the interferon-induced protein (IP-10) and the tumor necrosis factor (TRAIL), which induces apoptosis. Higher levels of these markers in sweat indicate a so-called cytokine storm, a wave of proinflammatory immune proteins produced by serious infections, writes News Medical.
New Sensor
In the future, these sensors will be added to various portable devices. Passive measurement of biomarkers will allow rapid reporting of infections. This information can be sent to doctors promptly, who will then be able to respond in a timely manner and prescribe therapy if necessary.
“Our work is pioneering, as to date it has not been certain that these molecules are present in sweat.” We found that our technology for passively measuring sweat in small quantities can really measure these biomarkers. ” said dr. Shalin Prasad.
Smart watches and fitness bracelets are currently widely used as fitness accessories. However, adding more different sensors to monitor key health indicators will make the device significantly more useful. It is not clear how soon we will be able to see them in use, but we certainly hope that not too much time will pass.
