Development of a Non-Invasive Sweat Sensor for Detecting Traumatic Brain Injury Biomarkers in NCAA Football Players
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a prevalent concern, particularly among football players within the NCAA. The current diagnostic approach involves costly and invasive methods, such as imaging and blood drawing. In order to address these challenges, our innovative solution involves the collection and analysis of sweat samples from players, offering a non-invasive and efficient alternative.
By examining the concentration of TBI biomarkers like GFAB, p-Tau, UCHL1, among others, within sweat samples, we aim to establish a reliable method for TBI diagnosis, recovery monitoring, and reoccurrence control. This approach not only provides a less intrusive means of testing but also offers the potential for more frequent monitoring, crucial in the context of sports injuries.
In addition to the biomarker testing, our project encompasses the design and optimization of a novel sweat patch. This patch is engineered to enhance the efficiency of sweat collection while prioritizing user comfort. Going beyond its primary function of sample collection, the sweat patch is envisioned to evolve into a diagnostic point-of-care device. By incorporating colorimetric designs into the patch, we aim to transform it into a multifunctional tool capable of not only collecting sweat but also serving as a real-time diagnostic indicator.
The evolution of this sweat sensor technology signifies a substantial leap forward in Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) diagnostics, presenting a more accessible and athlete-friendly methodology. Our groundbreaking sweat patch not only simplifies the testing procedure but also harbors the potential to transform point-of-care diagnostics for TBI, fostering a paradigm shift toward more proactive and personalized healthcare for athletes engaged in high-impact sports like football. This initiative is in harmony with the overarching objective of augmenting player safety and well-being in sports, introducing a novel era of non-invasive and efficient TBI monitoring.
Beyond its application in the realm of sports, the newly devised sweat patch methodology extends its utility to diverse domains such as the battlefield, public transportation accident prevention, and car insurance, among others. This versatility underscores the broader societal impact of our innovation, demonstrating its potential to transcend sports-related applications and address pressing healthcare needs in various settings. The adaptability of this technology opens avenues for widespread implementation, contributing to enhanced safety measures and healthcare solutions beyond the athletic arena.