Sensors are already being utilized to monitor patients with long-term consequences of COVID-19, as well as to track the concentration of chemotherapeutic drugs at the City of Hope clinic.
A recently developed technology is based on cubic nanoparticles with a nucleus of nickel-gadolinium-cobaltate (NGC). The production process involves forming the shell of these particles with the presence of a specific substance, such as vitamin C. After removing the molecule, holes are left behind that correspond exactly to its shape. When the targeted substance is present in sweat or another liquid, it fills these holes, altering the sensor’s electrical signal. This innovative method allows for the precise detection of particular molecules, akin to artificial antibodies.
The stability of nanoparticles in biological fluids makes them ideal for long-term use. Sensors are created using various types of nanoparticles, enabling the simultaneous measurement of multiple biomarkers. In a recent study, sensors were developed to monitor the levels of vitamin C, tryptophan, and creatinine – key indicators for investigating the aftermath of COVID-19.
A similar technology is employed to monitor the concentration of three anticancer medications in cancer patients. These wearable devices have enabled the remote monitoring of drug levels in the body, offering the potential for personalized dosage adjustments not only for oncology but also for other medical conditions.
Furthermore, researchers have demonstrated the feasibility of producing sensors that can be implanted beneath the skin for even more precise control over drug levels in the body. This advancement propels medicine towards a new era where treatment can be dynamically adapted based on real-time objective data.