Uric acid is a key indicator of metabolic activity and kidney function. Abnormally high levels are linked to gout, hyperuricaemia, cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. At the same time, dynamic changes in uric acid levels in wound exudate could provide valuable information for assessing healing progress and adjusting treatment plans. However, conventional uric acid testing typically relies on laboratory analysis, making it difficult to track changes continuously.
In a review published in Wearable Electronics , researchers from City University of Hong Kong and collaborating institutions examined recent advances in wearable uric acid sensors and the opportunities they may offer for personalised healthcare.
The researchers gave an overview of the detection methods used in wearable uric acid sensors and systematically summarises electrochemical, optical and other sensing strategies. Electrochemical methods are the most widely used in wearable applications because they offer high sensitivity, portability and easy integration.
The authors also assessed how researchers are improving the accuracy and reliability of these sensors. New materials, including carbon-based materials and metal-organic frameworks, can help sensors detect uric acid more efficiently. Protective gels and special coatings can reduce interference from proteins and other substances in body fluids. Additional temperature and pH sensors, built-in reference signals and machine-learning tools can further correct errors and prevent readings from drifting over time.
The review noted that these developments have already been incorporated into a wide range of devices, including flexible patches, microneedles, smart textiles, watches, gloves, mouthguards and smart diapers. “Depending on the design, these devices can measure uric acid in sweat, wound fluid, tissue fluid, saliva or urine,” shares corresponding Yue Hu. “In the future, such monitoring could support earlier disease detection, provide a clearer picture of wound healing and help people receive more timely, personalised care.”
The researchers described their vision for the next generation of wearable uric acid devices as more precise, personalized, and smart. “Reaching that goal will require further progress in long-term accuracy, comfort, data security, standardised testing, clinical validation and environmentally responsible design,” adds Hu. “The review highlights how combining advanced materials, flexible electronics and intelligent data analysis could move uric acid monitoring from laboratory tests to continuous, everyday healthcare.”
###
Contact the author: Yue Hu, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, huyff@szu.edu.cn
The publisher KeAi was established by Elsevier and China Science Publishing & Media Ltd to unfold quality research globally. In 2013, our focus shifted to open access publishing. We now proudly publish more than 200 world-class, open access, English language journals, spanning all scientific disciplines. Many of these are titles we publish in partnership with prestigious societies and academic institutions, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC).
Wearable Electronics
Literature review
Not applicable
Recent advances in wearable sensors for uric acid detection: Methods, devices, and outlooks
The authors declare no competing financial interests.