Innovative Real-Time Sensors Enhance Wound Healing Monitoring

Advancements in wound care technology now include the development of flexible, multiplexed sensors capable of providing real-time insights into the healing process. Traditionally, assessments of wounds rely heavily on visual inspection, which can be subjective and may not accurately reflect the underlying biological activity. A significant biomarker in wound healing is nitric oxide (NO), a critical signal produced by immune cells during inflammation that helps coordinate tissue repair.

Measuring NO levels in wounds has been challenging due to its transient nature, low concentrations, and potential interference from bacteria and other substances in wound fluid. To address these issues, a team led by the Cohen-Karni research group has engineered the MERLIN (multiplexed, electrochemical, real-time, localized, inflammation-tracking nitric oxide) sensor array. This innovative device utilizes flexible materials and multiple detection points to map NO levels across wounds, enabling precise and rapid measurement.

Recent studies published in Science Advances have demonstrated promising in vivo results from testing the sensors on rat skin wounds. The data showed NO levels peaking around day three, aligning with the inflammation phase of healing, and subsequently decreasing as recovery progresses. Such real-time data can potentially enable clinicians to better evaluate wound status and tailor treatment strategies.

Following encouraging preliminary results, the sensors are scheduled for human trials at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). These sensors will help clinicians accurately assess immune responses by measuring nitric oxide directly within wounds. The technology is rooted in breakthroughs from the Bioelectronics for Tissue Regeneration program, emphasizing both diagnostic and therapeutic potential.

Designed for clinical use by healthcare professionals, the sensors are also envisioned to evolve into wearable patches for at-home monitoring. Future improvements aim to extend monitoring beyond seven days, providing ongoing insights into wound healing and scarring prevention. The collaboration spans multiple institutions, including Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pittsburgh, and Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, focusing on creating modular, biohybrid electronic platforms that are adaptable, fast, and minimally invasive.

This advancement signifies a step forward in personalized wound management, leveraging biomedical engineering and material science to enhance healing outcomes.