Imagine if we could continuously monitor the molecular state of our bodies—detecting everything from drug levels to early signs of diseases like cancer in real time. For decades, scientists have been working to develop biosensors: devices that measure chemical or biological signals inside the body and transmit that information externally. While current biosensors can detect tiny molecules, they only function for short periods and can’t reliably monitor multiple substances over extended times.

Researchers at Stanford have recently made a breakthrough with a new biosensor system called SENSBIT (Stable Electrochemical Nanostructured Sensor for Blood In situ Tracking). Unlike previous devices, SENSBIT can remain fully functional for up to a week when implanted in the blood vessels of live rats. This bioinspired sensor mimics the human gut’s natural defenses, using a 3D nanoporous gold surface and a protective mucosa-like coating to shield sensitive molecular switches from the body’s immune system.

Tests showed that SENSBIT retains over 70% of its signal after one month in human serum and more than 60% after a week inside living rats. This is a remarkable improvement over previous biosensors, which typically lasted only hours in such conditions.

Continuous molecular monitoring with devices like SENSBIT could revolutionize medicine by enabling earlier disease detection and personalized treatment adjustments in real time. As Yihang Chen, the lead researcher, said, this work lays the foundation for a future where real-time biological insights drive better health outcomes.

Article written by Technology network team

23/05/2025

Source:

Technology network

https://www.technologynetworks.com/applied-sciences/news/nano-scale-biosensor-lets-scientists-monitor-molecules-in-real-time-400139