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Attomolar-sensitive milk fever sensor using 3D-printed multiplex sensing structures
Matin Ataei Kachouei1, Jacob Parkulo2, Samuel D Gerrard1
1School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, USA.
Nature Communications
|January 2, 2025
Summary
A new 3D-printed sensor detects subclinical hypocalcemia (SCH) in dairy cows by measuring calcium and phosphate levels in milk. This low-cost, rapid test aids early diagnosis and improves herd health management.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Animal Science
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- Milk fever (hypocalcemia) significantly impacts the dairy industry economically.
- Identifying subclinical hypocalcemia (SCH) in transition dairy cows is challenging.
- Early detection of SCH in milk can improve cow health and productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an attomolar-sensitive sensor for detecting the calcium-to-phosphate ratio in milk.
- To enable early, on-site diagnosis of subclinical hypocalcemia in dairy cows.
Main Methods:
- Utilized extrusion-based 3D-printed sensing structures with unique geometries and wrinkled surfaces.
- Developed a sensor to detect the ratio of ionized calcium to phosphate levels in milk.
- Validated the sensor using real milk and blood samples, comparing results with commercial meters.
Main Results:
- Achieved a limit of detection down to the attomole (138 aM) concentration.
- Demonstrated high selectivity for detecting the calcium-to-phosphate ratio.
- Sensor provides fast response times (~10 seconds) and is low-cost.
Conclusions:
- The developed 3D-printed sensor is a promising tool for farm-side diagnostics of dairy cows.
- This technology can expedite treatment for subclinical hypocalcemia, improving herd health and management.
- Enables on-site testing for early disease indication and best practice management.
