This novel system can effectively measure biological parameters such as muscle contraction, temperature, and sweat. In addition, thanks to a technology inspired by the adhesive properties of certain molecules found in mussels, it can be easily attached to the skin.
From a collaboration funded by the 2nd Call of ICN2 Severo Ochoa Seed Funding for Emerging Topics 2021 Program, scientists from the Nanobioelectronics and Biosensors Group, led by ICREA Prof. Arben Merkoçi, and the Nanostructured Functional Materials Group, spearheaded by CSIC Prof. Daniel Ruiz-Molina, have developed a novel system for wireless monitoring of biological parameters based on adhesive membranes to be applied to the skin. These findings, which could be key in preventing conditions such as heat stroke, have recently been published in the journal Biosensors & Bioelectronics.
Heat stroke is an increasingly common and potentially life-threatening problem. The use of wearable devices can be of great help in its prevention. However, most currently available devices are either bulky (due to the need for batteries or electronics) or fail to maintain adequate contact with the skin.
The new device developed at ICN2 represents a radical advance in this type of technology. It consists of a battery-free network of printed sensors with nanofunctional inks covered with a mussel-inspired bio-adhesive membrane. It can measure many key biological parameters, such as body temperature, lack of sweating, and seizures, in real time and accurately. Moreover, NFC technology can also send results to a mobile device.
Another novel aspect of the membrane is that it adheres easily and effectively to the skin and is resistant to sweat. To achieve these results, ICN2 scientists were inspired by the adhesive molecules found in mussels.
This device undoubtedly marks a significant advancement in developing more modern and user-friendly wireless devices that can efficiently monitor the biological population’s biological parameters and prevent various pathologies.
Reference article
Maroli, G., Rosati, G., Suárez-García, S., Bedmar-Romero, D., Kobrin, R., González-Laredo, Á., Urban, M., Alvárez-Diduk, R., Ruiz-Molina, D., Merkoçi, A. (2024). Wearable, battery-free, wireless multiplexed printed sensors for heat stroke prevention with mussel-inspired bio-adhesive membranes. Biosensors and Bioelectronics. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bios.2024.116421.