Recently, scientists developed a new microchip that could assess a person's stress hormone levels through a single drop of blood. The electronics behind this technology is similar to the usual semiconductor that we use in computers and other devices.
Nanosensors Can Detect Cortisols
When we feel stressed over a thing, our stress hormones known as cortisols increase. The effect of stress can vary from one individual to another. Some experience sleeplessness, loss of appetite, while others experience anxiety, panic attacks, and other psychological outcomes.
According to Rutgers University computer and electrical engineer, Reza Mahmoodi, the nanosensors in the chip will help the scientists evaluate what's going on with the patient's cortisol. He said that there is no need for the other molecules to be used as labels during the process.
The common notion about labeling particles is the use of fluorescent tags. They are used to track the activities happening in the cell. The case of nanosensors is different. They could work without the green fluorescent protein.
The chip will rely on the resistance to the electrical current, which is known as impedance, ScienceAlert reported on Friday, July 2.
How The Nanochip Works For Stress Hormone Assessment
In just a few minutes, you can know how stressed you are. But, how does the microchip work?
For the experiment, scientists selected 65 patients who have rheumatoid arthritis. Before that, they first tested the device to see if it would be suited for biotechnology procedures. After testing it, they gathered blood samples from the patients and ran analyses from them.
It was found out that the simple tests using the microchips have been much cheaper compared to the standard method used for cortisol level detection. Through this experiment, patients would no longer go to the hospital to know how stressed they are.
Another engineer, Mehdi Javanmard who is also from Rutgers University, said that their newly-created sensor displays high accuracy in interpreting real-time data for cortisol level reading. Furthermore, he added that it could also be used with urine and saliva for a similar purpose
The Wonders of Biotechnology
Back in February, we reported about a wearable that could detect cortisol levels through the patient's sweat. Through the gadget, Swiss scientists have collected qualitative and quantitative data obtained from it. In addition, they will continue to explore if the wearable would also work for those who have Cushing's syndrome (overproduction of cortisol) and Addison's disease (underproduction of cortisol).
"The fact that molecular labels are not required eliminates the need for large bulky instruments like optical microscopes and plate readers, making the readout instrumentation something you can measure ultimately in a small pocket-sized box or even fit onto a wristband one day," Javanmard said.
To view the full study entitled "Single-step label-free nanowell immunoassay accurately quantifies serum stress hormones within minutes," click here.
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Written by Joseph Henry
