A Breakthrough in Health Monitoring

Imagine a world where monitoring your health is as easy as sticking on a patch—no blood draws, no pain, and no bulky devices. That's now a reality, thanks to researchers who have developed a self-powered microneedle patch capable of tracking a variety of health biomarkers non-invasively.

The Science Behind the Patch

At the core of this innovation is the ability to collect interstitial fluid (ISF)—the fluid that surrounds our cells—specifically from just below the skin’s surface. This fluid contains nearly all the same biomarkers found in blood but requires far less processing, making it much simpler to analyze.

Michael Daniele, a professor at NC State and lead author of the groundbreaking study published in *Lab on a Chip*, explains, "The patch extracts ISF using microneedles that are practically painless. This is a game-changer for both individuals and healthcare professionals who face challenges with traditional blood testing, such as the discomfort and complexity of handling blood samples."

How It Works: A Four-Layer Marvel

The design of the patch features four layers: a polymer exterior, a gel layer, a paper layer, and the innovative microneedles. When these microneedles come into contact with ISF, they swell, drawing the fluid into the paper layer through a process that mirrors how water moves through a paper towel. This mechanism allows for efficient storage of the fluid, which can be analyzed later.

Fast and Effective Testing

Tested on synthetic skin, this patch excelled, collecting measurable biomarker data in as little as 15 minutes, with the ability to store these samples for up to 24 hours. For initial testing, researchers monitored cortisol levels—a critical marker of stress that changes throughout the day—highlighting its practicality for multiple daily checks without the need for painful blood samples.

Affordable and Accessible