Microneedle-Based Smart Patch for Continuous Biomarker Monitoring
At Microneedles 2025, our consortium presented exciting results from the ELSAH project: the development of an integrated microneedle (MN)-based smart patch designed for continuous monitoring of biomarkers such as glucose and lactate.
Why Microneedle Monitoring?
Chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and high blood pressure carry a tremendous social cost. Preventing and managing these diseases requires evidence-based support, and molecular biomarkers are among the most powerful predictors available.
Interstitial fluid (ISF) is rich in these biomarkers and can be accessed in a minimally invasive way. Microneedle patches provide a pain-free option to continuously sample ISF — a game-changer for patient comfort and compliance.
The ELSAH Project
The project brings together a diverse consortium of research institutes and industry partners, aiming to integrate microneedle technology into a wearable patch sensor system. Key features include:
Functionalized microneedles with enzymes (LactaZyme® from DirectSens) for lactate monitoring.
Replica moulding for cost-effective polymer microneedle wafers.
Integrated reference, counter, and working electrodes for simultaneous detection.
Infineon’s on-chip potentiostat and NFC/UHF communication, paired with a mobile app for real-time data readout.
Sanmina’s device housing for skin compatibility and integration of electronics and batteries.
Results and Validation
A coin-sized prototype device enabling simultaneous glucose and lactate monitoring was developed.
Over 100 biosensors were fabricated and tested.
The system passed cytotoxicity, sensitization, and irritation tests (ISO10993-5/-10/-23).
A 30-volunteer in-human study was successfully carried out at the Medical University of Graz.
Outlook
The smart patch demonstrates that scalable microneedle-based biosensor systems can move beyond the lab and into practical healthcare applications. By enabling continuous, minimally invasive biomarker monitoring, this technology holds promise for better disease management, personalized health tracking, and ultimately, improved quality of life.
