Caltech Researchers Develop Printable Nanoparticles for Wearable Biosensors
Scientists at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have developed a breakthrough method for mass-producing wearable biosensors using inkjet-printed nanoparticles. These cutting-edge sensors offer real-time monitoring of essential biomarkers, including vitamins, hormones, metabolites, and medications—paving the way for more personalized healthcare.The technology, led by Professor Wei Gao and his team in the Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, utilizes core-shell cubic nanoparticles that function like artificial antibodies. These particles are designed to selectively recognize specific molecules, allowing the sensors to detect biomarker levels in bodily fluids such as sweat.
The new biosensors have already demonstrated their potential in medical applications. Patients with long COVID have used the sensors to track metabolites, while cancer patients at City of Hope benefited from real-time monitoring of chemotherapy drug levels. The ability to personalize drug dosages based on individual responses could revolutionize treatment for chronic illnesses.
How It Works
Each nanoparticle features a nickel hexacyanoferrate (NiHCF) core, which generates an electrical signal when exposed to sweat or other bodily fluids. The surrounding polymer shell is customized to recognize specific molecules, such as vitamin C. When a targeted molecule binds to the shell, it blocks fluid contact with the core, weakening the electrical signal. This change in signal strength allows for precise measurement of biomarker levels.
The flexible, long-lasting sensors can track multiple biomarkers simultaneously. In recent trials, sensors were printed to monitor vitamin C, tryptophan (an amino acid), and creatinine (a kidney function marker). Researchers also developed sensors to measure three different chemotherapy drugs, providing crucial insights into drug metabolism.
Future Applications
Beyond wearable patches, the team is exploring implantable sensors for continuous drug monitoring beneath the skin. These advancements could lead to more personalized treatment plans, ensuring patients receive the right medication doses at the right time.
The study, published in Nature Materials, was supported by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, American Cancer Society, and other organizations. The Kavli Nanoscience Institute at Caltech also played a key role in supporting the research.
A New Era of Personalized Medicine
"This technology opens the door to continuous, noninvasive health monitoring," said Gao. "We’re moving toward a future where wearable sensors provide real-time data to improve medical care for chronic diseases, cancer treatment, and beyond."
With its potential to transform diagnostics and treatment, this innovation marks a significant step toward the future of personalized healthcare.
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