Sensors Track Biomarkers to Aid Wound Care

“Medical professionals typically assess wounds through visual inspection, a method often limited by subjectivity. Nitric oxide (NO), released by immune cells during inflammation, is crucial for healing as it helps coordinate the recovery process.“

Measuring nitric oxide in wounds is difficult because it degrades quickly and exists in very low amounts. Additionally, wound fluids often contain bacteria and other compounds that can interfere with accurate readings.

Innovative MERLIN Sensor Array Enables Real-Time, Localized NO Monitoring

To tackle these obstacles, the Cohen-Karni research group has developed a new solution: the MERLIN sensor array—a multiplexed, electrochemical system designed to monitor NO levels in real time and at localized sites within wounds.

This electrochemical sensor, comparable to a glucose monitor, measures biomarkers linked to wound healing. Using flexible materials and multiple sensors, it maps NO levels in real time to aid recovery.

In Vivo Rat Studies Confirm NO Peaks During Inflammation Phase

Recent in vivo studies on rat skin wounds, published in Science Advances, showed encouraging results—NO levels peaked on the third day, aligning with the inflammation phase of healing and consistent with findings from earlier research.

Based on these promising results, the team will begin human trials next month at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC).

“These sensors will enable clinicians to evaluate wound conditions by directly measuring nitric oxide levels—a key biomarker of the immune response,” said Tzahi Cohen-Karni, professor of biomedical engineering and materials science.

The technology emerged from advancements in wound care through the Bioelectronics for Tissue Regeneration program. Beyond aiding treatment, it also supports the development of diagnostic tools.

Collaborative Design Focuses on Flexibility and Integration for Advanced Sensor Array

Researchers prioritized flexibility, compactness, and speed in developing the prototype. The resulting sensor array is modular and can be integrated into a biohybrid electronic system.

“Although the current version of the device is designed for use by physicians in clinical settings, future advancements could allow it to be integrated into a wearable patch for at-home use, with clinicians remotely accessing patient data,” said Cohen-Karni.

As development continues, the research team aims to extend monitoring of nitric oxide levels beyond seven days to better understand its role in long-term healing and in reducing scarring in chronic or slow-healing wounds.

Read the original article on: medicalxpress

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