Decentralized vitamin C & D dual biosensor chip: Toward personalized immune system support

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nutritional Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of immune system support through vitamins C and D.
• There is a need for accessible self-testing platforms to monitor these micronutrients for personalized nutrition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a compact bioelectronic dual sensor chip for simultaneous, on-the-spot monitoring of salivary vitamin C and D.
• To enable frequent measurement of these key micronutrients to guide precision nutrition.

Main Methods:

• Development of a bioelectronic chip integrating an electrocatalytic amperometric assay for vitamin C and a competitive immunoassay for vitamin D.
• Simultaneous detection of both vitamins in small saliva volumes (10 μL) within a short timeframe (25 min).
• Selective and cross-talk-free detection achieved on neighboring electrodes.

Main Results:

• The dual sensor chip successfully monitored temporal profiles of vitamin C and D in saliva.
• Individual variations in vitamin levels post-supplementation were observed.
• Demonstrated feasibility of simultaneous, rapid, and selective detection.

Conclusions:

• The developed bioelectronic chip offers a promising strategy for frequent, on-the-spot monitoring of salivary vitamins C and D.
• This technology can enhance personalized nutrition by guiding dietary interventions based on individual micronutrient needs.
• Supports improved immune system health through precision nutrition recommendations.