Researchers at the University of Texas in Austin have developed a rapid and cost-effective method for testing acute pancreatitis. A sensor has been developed from a 12-cent LED light, milk protein, aluminum foil, gelatin, and other low-cost substances. The device, which is the size of a matchbox, utilizes a dual-step procedure to identify the disease.
In the first step, a bit of blood extract is placed on a layer of milk protein and gelatin. In patients with acute pancreatitis, there are high levels of trypsin enzyme in the blood. This enzyme breaks down the gelatin. In the second step, a drop of sodium hydroxide (lye) is included. If the enzyme levels are high enough to break down the primary barrier, the lye will pass down to the second barrier. If both barriers are permeable and if the foil corrodes, a circuit is formed between an iron salt at the cathode and magnesium anode. If a red light appears within a span of one hour, the disease is diagnosed.
The sensor can prevent acute pancreatitis. Some symptoms of acute pancreatitis are severe stomach pain, nausea, fever, and shock. It can also prove to be fatal under certain conditions. Zaccheo and Crooks, who hold a provisional patent on the sensor, believe that eh device can be used in several potential applications.
The sensor can help in conducting complex tests for pancreatitis and can be used in circumstances such as after a natural calamity or in remote areas where batteries are not easily available. The sensor’s speed makes it a first choice even in well-stocked hospitals.
Source: http://www.utexas.edu/