Skin patch biomarker sensor that doesn't need batteries

**Skin patch biomarker sensor doesn’t need batteries
Picture of a microfluidic device designed to mount on the skin and to collect and analyze microliter volumes of sweat. The system includes combined capabilities in electrical and color-based measurements of the rate and loss of sweat, as well as the concentrations of glucose, lactate and chloride and the pH level. Credit: J. Rogers, Northwestern University

An international team of researchers has developed a skin patch that serves as a biomarker sensor—one that does not need batteries. In their paper published in the journal Science Advances,, the group describes the new device patch and how it works.

Biomarker sensors have become popularized by such devices as the Fitbit, but as the researchers note, they are typically bulky and only measure mechanical activities. In this new effort, the researchers have created a device that measures at work in real time—a soft that detects information about the inner body by testing components of sweat.

The patch has tiny holes that pull in sweat when it is attached to the skin. Samples of the sweat move naturally through micro-channels that lead to tiny collection chambers. Each of the chambers serves as an individual test site. One measures how much sweat has been produced, another tests pH levels by color changes. Others have chemical reagents that react with lactate or glucose. The components that need power get it from emitted from such as smartphones. Likewise, data from the device can be read by a smartphone (using near-field communication technology) and converted to a form easily interpreted by the user or the doctors tending to them. The researchers note that elements in include markers for things like cystic fibrosis, dehydration and electrolyte levels. The patch could also provide athletes with a real-time test of how their body is holding up during competition.

**Skin patch biomarker sensor doesn’t need batteries
Picture of a microfluidic device designed to mount on the skin and to collect and analyze microliter volumes of sweat. The system includes combined capabilities in electrical and color-based measurements of the rate and loss of sweat, as well as the concentrations of glucose, lactate and chloride and the pH level. Credit: J. Rogers, Northwestern University

A patch format is considered more comfortable than devices that are strapped to the body, and they are therefore more likely to be used. Patches can also be used in almost any environment, including underwater. The researchers note that this makes them ideal for individualized systems dedicated to monitoring elements in the body that pertain to specific conditions for a given individual. They also note that the channel portion of the patch is disposable, which means the patch can be used multiple times, reducing costs.

**Skin patch biomarker sensor doesn’t need batteries
Picture of a flexible microfluidic module for collecting sweat and measuring the rate of sweat release, the total loss of sweat, the concentration of chloride and the pH level. Credit: J. Rogers, Northwestern University

More information: Amay J. Bandodkar et al. Battery-free, skin-interfaced microfluidic/electronic systems for simultaneous electrochemical, colorimetric, and volumetric analysis of sweat, Science Advances (2019). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aav3294

Journal information: Science Advances

© 2019 Science X Network

Citation: Skin patch biomarker sensor that doesn't need batteries (2019, January 21) retrieved 29 March 2024 from https://techxplore.com/news/2019-01-skin-patch-biomarker-sensor-doesnt.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

Skin-based biofuel cell developed for scavenging energy from human sweat

206 shares

Feedback to editors