New Sensor Promises Rapid Detection of Dangerous Heavy Metal Levels in Humans, University of Cincinnati Study

Work by University of Cincinnati researchers to create a sensor that provides fast feedback related to the presence and levels of heavy metals -- specifically manganese -- in humans is published in the August issue of the journal, Biomedical Microdevices. Described in the article is the development of a low-cost, disposable lab-on-a-chip sensor that detects highly electronegative heavy metals more quickly than current technology generally available in health-care settings. It's envisioned that the new UC sensor technology will be used in point-of-care devices that provide needed feedback on heavy-metal levels within about ten minutes.