Innovative Self-powered Patch Tracks Biomarkers Non-invasively

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a groundbreaking self-powered microneedle patch capable of monitoring various health biomarkers without the need for blood draws. This innovative device utilizes dermal interstitial fluid (ISF), which contains nearly the same biomarkers as blood but in a simpler, unprocessed form, making testing more straightforward and less invasive.

The patch is composed of four layers: a polymer housing, a gel, paper, and the microneedles. Made from swellable materials, the microneedles penetrate the skin to access the ISF. Once in contact with the fluid, the needles cause the ISF to wick onto the paper layer. The paper, saturated with ISF, then interacts with a glycerol-infused gel creating osmotic pressure that draws more fluid in until saturation. When removed, the paper strip contains the collected sample for analysis.

In laboratory tests using synthetic skin models, the patches successfully collected measurable biomarkers within 15 minutes and stored samples for up to 24 hours. The team demonstrated the device’s effectiveness by monitoring cortisol levels, a stress biomarker that fluctuates during the day, highlighting potential for multiple daily measurements without painful blood draws.

This passive, battery-free technology offers a cost-effective alternative to conventional blood testing, requiring only disposable materials and simple mechanical operation. Current progress includes human trials and the development of electronic readers to analyze the samples directly from the paper strips.

The research team aims to collaborate with industry partners to enhance scalability and explore additional biomarker applications, promising a future of minimally invasive, continuous health monitoring that could revolutionize diagnostics and patient care.