Chinese researchers have developed a highly-sensitive blood test chip to accurately detect mercury (Hg²⁺) levels within a second, using only 10 microliters of blood, a fraction of a drop.

A research team at the Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, designed a chip with molecular probes using analog simulation and FET (Field Effect Transistor) technologies, which showed ultra-sensitive performance in tests.

The FET chip exhibited excellent response and repeatability in the determination of Hg²⁺ in blood, said Huang Xingjiu who led the research.

Compared with traditional blood testing methods, the novel strategy with high sensitivity and stability for Hg²⁺ detection has reduced the needed blood sample by 200 times.

The measurement of ultralow concentrations of heavy metal ions in blood is challenging. The development of ultra-sensitive chips with an ultralow minimum detectable level of Hg²⁺ has easy operation at low cost, and is applicable in other biological and food tests.

The research was published in the latest issue of Small, a top multidisciplinary journal covering a broad spectrum of topics at the nano and micro scale. (Xinhua)

Contact:

ZHOU Shu

Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (http://english.hf.cas.cn/)

Email: zhous@hfcas.ac.cn