We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
PURITAN MEDICAL

Download Mobile App




New Blood Test Device Modeled on Leeches to Help Diagnose Malaria

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 06 May 2024

Many individuals have a fear of needles, making the experience of having blood drawn from their arm particularly distressing. More...

An alternative method involves taking blood from the fingertip or earlobe, but this often yields insufficient blood for many tests and can result in inaccurate laboratory values that vary between measurements. Now, researchers have developed an innovative device that uses microneedles and a suction cup instead of a large needle, which could be especially beneficial for those with needle phobia. This device can collect more blood than the traditional finger prick, enhancing the reliability of diagnostic measurements. Additionally, its low production cost makes it feasible for use in developing countries.

The new device for taking blood samples developed by researchers at ETH Zurich (Zurich, Switzerland) operates on a principle similar to that of a leech and is less invasive than traditional arm blood draws. It is user-friendly and can be operated by individuals without medical training. Although it does not gather as much blood as a conventional needle, it significantly surpasses the volume collected from a finger prick. The concept for this device emerged while the ETH researchers were developing a suction cup intended to administer medication through the mucous membranes inside the mouth, during which they studied how leeches attach to their hosts using a sucker and then draw blood.

The device mimics how leeches work: after attaching, they penetrate the skin with their teeth and create negative pressure to draw blood. Similarly, the new device features a suction cup about two and a half centimeters in diameter that adheres to the patient's upper arm or back. It houses a dozen microneedles that pierce the skin when pressed against it. Within minutes, the negative pressure collects enough blood for diagnostic testing. This cost-effective device could be especially useful in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where it could significantly impact the fight against diseases such as malaria.

An additional safety feature of this device is that the microneedles are enclosed within the suction cup, reducing the risk of injury both during use and after disposal, unlike conventional needles. Currently, the suction cup is made of silicone, and the microneedles are steel, but the team is developing a version using fully biodegradable materials. While this device has been tested on pigs and extensive manufacturing details have been prepared, further optimization of the materials and safe use testing in humans are needed. The researchers are hopeful that their innovative device will soon be aiding the health of children and all who fear needles.

Related Links:
ETH Zurich 


Gold Member
Flocked Fiber Swabs
Puritan® Patented HydraFlock®
Serological Pipet Controller
PIPETBOY GENIUS
New
Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Assay
LIAISON Anti-TPO
New
Modular Hemostasis Automation Solution
CN Track
Read the full article by registering today, it's FREE! It's Free!
Register now for FREE to LabMedica.com and get access to news and events that shape the world of Clinical Laboratory Medicine.
  • Free digital version edition of LabMedica International sent by email on regular basis
  • Free print version of LabMedica International magazine (available only outside USA and Canada).
  • Free and unlimited access to back issues of LabMedica International in digital format
  • Free LabMedica International Newsletter sent every week containing the latest news
  • Free breaking news sent via email
  • Free access to Events Calendar
  • Free access to LinkXpress new product services
  • REGISTRATION IS FREE AND EASY!
Click here to Register








DIASOURCE (A Biovendor Company)

Channels

Molecular Diagnostics

view channel
Image: Combining rapid diagnostic tests with conventional serology proves to be a useful strategy for diagnosing Chagas disease (Courtesy of Adobe Stock)

Rapid Tests for Chagas Disease Improves Diagnostic Access

Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, affects between six and seven million people across the Americas. It is primarily transmitted by insect vectors and remains largely underdiagnosed,... Read more

Hematology

view channel
Image: CitoCBC is the world first cartridge-based CBC to be granted CLIA Waived status by FDA (Photo courtesy of CytoChip)

Disposable Cartridge-Based Test Delivers Rapid and Accurate CBC Results

Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most commonly ordered lab tests, crucial for diagnosing diseases, monitoring therapies, and conducting routine health screenings. However, more than 90% of physician... Read more

Immunology

view channel
Image: How the predictive test works (Photo courtesy of QMUL)

World’s First Clinical Test Predicts Best Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition affecting 1 in 100 people in the UK today, causing the immune system to attack its joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, RA can... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2025 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.