In an effort to improve human health care and protection, scientists from the United States and Italy have developed innovative sensors that monitor gut health and ensure the safe storage of frozen foods.
Sensor measuring glucose levels in the gut (left) and sensor indicating proper freezing of food (right).
Glucose levels in the gut serve as an important biomarker reflecting overall digestive health. Currently, measuring this indicator requires the insertion of a tube down the throat, which can be painful and uncomfortable. To reduce the invasiveness of this process, scientists at the University of California have developed a swallowable sensor that provides real-time continuous glucose monitoring.
Structurally, the new sensor resembles a pill, measuring 26mm x 9mm. It combines a biofuel cell with a biosensor, all encased in a polymer shell. Once swallowed, the sensor continuously measures glucose levels in the small intestine, using the glucose itself as its power source.
At regular intervals, the sensor transmits data through low-intensity electromagnetic pulses to an external wearable device, which receives and decodes the information. Trials conducted on pigs, which have a digestive system similar to that of humans, showed that the device effectively monitored gut glucose levels for 14 hours and transmitted data every 5 seconds at specified intervals. After completing its task, the sensor is naturally expelled from the body.
The inventors have stated that they plan to miniaturize the sensor for human use and potentially integrate additional sensors. This technology is expected to enhance understanding of metabolic processes in the gut, aiming to improve health and prevent diseases in humans.
* Meanwhile, experts at the Italian Institute of Technology have created a sensor that alerts whether frozen products have been stored safely.
Measuring less than 2.5cm in length, the sensor is made from beeswax and contains two chambers filled with purple cabbage juice and an electrolyte solution (water mixed with salt). The device is equipped with metal electrodes. When attached to frozen meat, the electrolyte also freezes; however, when temperatures rise (causing both the meat and electrolyte solution to thaw), the electrolyte sends an electrical signal to the metal electrodes, changing the color of the liquid in the sensor from red to blue. The sensor operates within a temperature range of 0 to -50 degrees Celsius.
According to the research team, manufacturers can use this sensor to ensure that food is frozen properly throughout transportation and storage, or it can help consumers identify frozen foods that have been stored safely and are safe for consumption.
