NanoMolar: Replacing Blood Tests with Sweat and Saliva Tests

Replacing Blood Tests with Sweat and Saliva Tests: Precision Detection of Biomarker Concentration

Medical Device Design: Proof of Concept Prototype Development

13 June 2024, Singapore – NanoMolar, a leading startup in non-invasive bio-sensing technology in partnership with the National University of Singapore (NUS) has reached a key milestone with the arrival of their first device proof of concept prototypes Designed by D+I. The concept of creating an extremely accurate bio-chemical graphene sensor started almost 20 years ago, when it was theoretically clear that graphene, being one atom thick would be perfect for bio-chemical detection. After 2 decades of evolution in the quality of graphene production, research into detailed control of graphene's chemical functionalization, and with the foundational support from the National Research Foundation Singapore, this theory has become a reality.

NanoMolar and its partners have developed a graphene-based screen printed electrode sensor that offers unmatched precision in detecting biomarkers in sweat. As a biological medium sweat has novel properties, such as identifying local concentrations of biomarkers from the body compared to an average found in blood - due to how blood circulates throughout the body, whereas sweat does not. The technology can be used to identify concentrations of a host of specific Electrolytes, Metabolites, Vitamins, Hormones, Proteins, Peptides and Xenobiotics.

In line with the delivery of the first prototype systems, NanoMolar's in-house fabrication capabilities can now accommodate production of hundreds of pilot customised sensors with chemical functionalization. This allows for tailored sensors designed to detection of various biomarkers, powered by their patented technology, providing a detection solution that is rapid, simple, reusable, and cost-effective.

Through the design and development process, the D+I team applied conceptual, usability, mechanical, and electronics expertise to deliver an optimised three-component system supported by a simple three-step workflow. The system is capable of delivering almost instant real-time values via the supporting Smart Device Application developed by Singaporean studio SwagSoft, and provides an equalised concentration output in less than 5 minutes.

NanoMolar: Non-Invasive Bio-Sensing System

Graphene Sensor: A customised screen-printed graphene sensor for sample measurement.

Cartridge: The interchangable Graphene Sensor is inserted into a PCB-driven cartridge for sample application.

Analyser: The cartridge is then loaded into the benchtop NanoMolar Analyser for processing which is controlled by an external smart device app, providing instant data feedback through the display of sample analysis results.

This key milestone highlights the significant outcomes possible through the collaborative efforts of Nanomolar, the NUS Centre for Advanced 2D Materials (CA2DM), Design + Industry, and all partners in translating theories into technical research discoveries, and into commercialised healthcare solutions.

Learn more: Centre for Advanced 2D Materials (NUS)
Learn more: NanoMolar.Life

NanoMolar
Singapore

Nanomolar, born from Singapore's esteemed Centre for Advanced 2D Materials at NUS, is revolutionising health monitoring through cutting-edge, non-invasive bio-sensing technology. Central to their innovation is the ability to precisely monitor key biomarkers like lactate, glucose, sodium, potassium, uric acid, cholesterol and cortisol in sweat and external bio-fluids, presenting a groundbreaking alternative to conventional blood tests and subcutaneous methods. This breakthrough marks a new era in healthcare, combining comfort with an unprecedented level of sensitivity for monitoring vital health parameters.

For more information, visit www.nanomolar.life

Design + Industry
Australia

D+I is Australia’s leading product design and development consultancy, with a team of 80+ specialist designers and engineers between our Melbourne, Sydney and Newcastle studios. D+I is a trusted and proven complete product development partner, from initial concepts through to overseeing production. We create agile development teams with diverse skills and specialised knowledge to ensure the best outcome for every project. No project is too big or too small. We can design any product, for any market, any user, any production process, and any production quantity.

ISO 13485:2016 Certified for the Compliant Development of Medical Devices

Phone: +61 2 9555 1166
Email: info@design-industry.com.au