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Novel biosensors set to revolutionise brain-controlled robotics

A novel carbon-based biosensor developed at the University of Technology Sydney detects electrical signals sent by the brain, translating them into commands for autonomous robotic systems. The biosensor overcomes three major challenges in graphene-based biosensing: corrosion, durability, and skin-contact resistance.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021

Building bacteria to keep us well

Researchers have genetically engineered bacteria to detect specific chemicals in the gut, which can help maintain balanced neurotransmitter levels. The bacteria, called Escherichia coli Nissle 1917, produce enzymes that degrade or synthesize target chemicals, potentially alleviating mental health issues.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCell Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2021

Ultrasensitive detection of endocrine disruptors via superfine plasmonic spectral combs

A team of scientists developed a simple-to-implement plasmonic optical fiber biosensing platform to detect estrogenic endocrine disruptors. The platform can detect EEs down to 1.5 ng L^-1 estradiol equivalent concentration, the lowest limit of detection for any estrogen receptors-based detection reported to date.

Aptasensors helpful in detection of mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agricultural products, posing severe health risks. Aptasensors utilize aptamers to specifically detect mycotoxins with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for fast and reliable detection in field settings.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalChemosensors·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 8, 2021

Making patient care easier: Self-powered diaper sensors that monitor urine sugar levels

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a self-powered diaper sensor that monitors urine sugar levels, providing an alternative biomarker for blood sugar monitoring. The sensor uses a biofuel cell powered by glucose in the urine, detecting sugar levels within 1 second and simplifying caretaking tasks.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Study could help develop biosensors for non-invasive diagnosis of diseases

A study from Brazil's University of São Paulo used self-assembled molecular monolayers to create biosensors for detecting the gene PCA3, which is specific to prostate cancer cells. The technique can also be used to diagnose infectious diseases like COVID-19, offering a non-invasive alternative to current methods.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateMar 22, 2021

A semiconductor chip detects antigen concentrations at 1 parts per quadrillion molar mass

A semiconductor chip has been developed to detect antigen concentrations as low as 1 part per quadrillion molar mass, enabling ultra-sensitive detection on a portable scale. This technology uses organic nanosheets and can detect biomolecules in real-time, paving the way for quick disease diagnosis and telemedicine applications.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 1, 2020

Affinity vs. cooperativity

UC Santa Barbara researchers develop a method to increase both affinity and cooperativity in aptamer-based biosensors, allowing for fine-tuned regulation of receptor properties. This approach enables precision biosensing applications, such as detecting low concentrations of target molecules like chemotherapy drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 29, 2020

Watching changes in plant metabolism -- live

Researchers at the University of Münster used a new method to monitor plant metabolic processes in real-time, revealing key mechanisms in energy metabolism and their connection to environmental factors. The study provides new insights into plant responses to stressors like light, temperature, and pest infestation.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateAug 14, 2020

Liquid metal synthesis for better piezoelectrics: Atomically-thin tin-monosulfide

A new study applies liquid-metal synthesis to create atomically-thin tin-monosulfide with excellent electronic and piezoelectric properties, enabling flexible nanogenerators for wearable electronics and biosensors. The resulting material displays high durability and flexibility, making it suitable for commercial implementation.