Holographic Sensors Detect Disease

Jan-29-14 Smart holograms that change color in the presence of disease indicators could be developed into portable medical tests used to monitor health and diagnose diseases.

The holographic sensors do not need batteries, electricity or lasers to operate, and so could be used to create inexpensive tests for medical professionals or for at-home use by individuals. The sensors are made of hydrogels impregnated with silver nanoparticles, which have in turn been formed into three-dimensional holograms of predetermined shapes using a single laser pulse. When exposed to certain compounds (in the breath, saliva, urine, blood or tears of the user), the hydrogel will either shrink or expand, causing the color of the hologram to change.

The meaning of the color changes can be identified using a reference chart or smartphone camera, making it relatively easy for anyone to diagnose a number of medical conditions.

More Info about this Invention:

[GIZMAG.COM]
[UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE]

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