In a recent ECS Sensors Plus publication, researchers spotlight a cutting-edge advancement in non-enzymatic glucose sensing using vanadium MXene-modified disposable screen-printed electrodes. The study, “Vanadium MXene Modified Disposable Screen-Printed Electrodes for Highly Sensitive Glucose Sensing,” explores the development of a highly sensitive, cost-effective, and reproducible sensor platform capable of rapid glucose detection.

Leveraging the unique electrochemical properties of vanadium-based MXenes, the authors demonstrate a low detection limit, wide linear range, and excellent selectivity—key parameters that make the device promising for real-world clinical and wearable biosensing applications. This innovation supports the growing demand for accessible and accurate glucose monitoring technologies, particularly in the management of diabetes. (more…)

The device vibrates the test strip to mix the sample and reagent runs an electric current through it, and spits out the results on the screen.
Credit: Stephanie Mitchell

The researchers at Harvard University have devised a new portable device that has the ability to perform an abundance of medical tests – all thanks to electrochemistry.

“By applying a small amount of electricity to a drop of blood mixed with a reagent, the device can gauge glucose levels. The same goes for heavy metals in water, malaria antigens in blood, and sodium in urine,” researchers explained.

The beauty of the device lies in its simplicity and affordability. The total manufacturing costs comes in at $25, making it accessible to many. It also has an audio-out port, which allows users to transmit their readings via a cellphone to an online server.

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