BITS Hyderabad Unveils INR 15 Sweat Sensor for Rapid Health Checks

The research team, led by scholar Sonal Fande, built the sensor using a simple inkjet printing method on a flexible polyimide surface.

Researchers from BITS Pilani, Hyderabad, have developed a low-cost electrochemical biosensor that can detect glucose and lactate from sweat, urine, blood, and cell culture media in under five minutes.

Designed to support early diagnosis and real-time metabolic health monitoring, the device costs just INR 15 and eliminates the need for invasive blood sampling.

The research team, led by scholar Sonal Fande, built the sensor using a simple inkjet printing method on a flexible polyimide surface.

The biosensor comprises two components that use specific enzymes to detect glucose and lactate. These enzymes are deposited on tiny carbon nanotubes that transmit electrical signals.

Minimally Disruptive, Lab-Friendly Alternative

Fande highlighted the sensor's practical utility, saying, "By enabling quick metabolic readouts from spent culture media or body fluids, we're offering a minimally disruptive tool for both diagnostics and research. It reduces dependence on skilled protocols and speeds up the decision-making process in cell-based experiments."

The plug-and-play platform does not require specialists to operate and eliminates the need for manual passaging or imaging, making it suitable for lab use. It is also helpful for drug screening, toxicity testing, and personalised medicine applications.

Real-Time Results Without Costly Equipment

According to the team, the latest sensor version delivers greater accuracy and functions effectively even when oxygen levels are low. "This latest version of the sensor performs better than older ones. It is more accurate, works well even when oxygen levels are low, and can quickly detect key health markers in real time," said Fande.

Unlike conventional optical detection platforms, the biosensor avoids using costly dyes, antibodies, or imaging equipment, offering a cost-efficient and needle-free alternative for metabolic health diagnostics.

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