The biosensor is designed to continuously monitor brain tissues to detect changes related to brain injuries. (Credit: Getty Images)

Scientists have successfully tested in the lab a tiny biosensor they developed that can detect biomarkers tied to traumatic brain injuries. Researchers say their waterproof biosensor includes an "unprecedented combination of features" that may allow it to detect changes in the concentrations of various chemicals in the body and send the results to researchers in real time.

The chip is flexible and thinner than a human hair, making it minimally invasive for use in the brain. Although the biosensor could have many potential uses, they focused on how the sensor could be used to monitor patients with traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

After such an injury, secondary damage can occur that can be detected by changes in sodium and potassium ion concentrations in the brain's cerebrospinal fluid. The researchers tested the biosensor in an artificial solution created to mimic cerebrospinal fluid and found that it could accurately detect changes in potassium and sodium ion levels that are important in TBI.

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