Revolutionary Breath Sensor for Diabetes Diagnosis

In a groundbreaking step in disease diagnosis, a research team led by Professor Huanyu “Larry” Cheng has developed a sensor capable of diagnosing diabetes and pre-diabetes on-site within minutes using only a breath sample. The results of this research were published in the Journal of Chemical Engineering.

Traditional Diagnostic Techniques vs. New Innovation

Traditional diagnostic methods have long relied on measuring blood or sweat glucose levels to detect diabetes. However, the new device focuses on acetone levels in the breath, as acetone is a byproduct of fat metabolism in the body. If breath acetone levels exceed 1.8 parts per million, it indicates the presence of diabetes.

Cheng explained that while there are existing breath analysis sensors, they require laboratory analysis of biomarkers. In contrast, the new sensor can read acetone levels on-site, making it cost-effective and easy to use.

Innovative Design and Materials

The innovation in this sensor lies in its design and materials, primarily using laser-induced graphene. Carbon-containing materials, such as polyimide film, are burned with a carbon dioxide laser to form porous graphene with large defects, ideal for sensing.

Cheng likened the production of graphene to toasting bread until it turns black like carbon. By adjusting laser parameters like power and speed, porous graphene with few layers can be obtained, enhancing its gas sensing efficiency.

Challenges and Solutions

One challenge the team faced was the non-selectivity of laser-induced graphene for acetone compared to other gases. Therefore, it was combined with zinc oxide to form a junction that allows selective acetone detection.

The sensor surface can also absorb water molecules, as breath contains high humidity. To overcome this challenge, a selective membrane was developed to act as a moisture barrier, allowing acetone to penetrate without water.

Future Applications

Currently, the device requires the person to breathe directly into a bag to avoid interference from environmental factors like airflow. The next step is to improve the device to work directly under the nose or inside a mask, where gas can be detected in exhaled breath condensation.

Cheng plans to explore how using the breath sensor to detect acetone can improve individual health initiatives. If scientists can understand how breath acetone levels change with diet and exercise, similar to glucose levels, it could present exciting opportunities for health applications beyond diabetes diagnosis.

Conclusion

This research represents a significant advancement in diabetes diagnostic technologies, offering a fast, efficient, and inexpensive solution. Thanks to the use of laser-induced graphene and zinc oxide, acetone levels in breath can now be detected with high accuracy. This innovation not only promises new possibilities in disease diagnostics but also opens up broader health applications related to lifestyle and diet.