Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a microchip that can perform real-time measurements of stress hormone levels in a drop of blood. The technology could provide a replacement for bulky and expensive lab tests for such hormones, and allow patients to monitor their stress levels more easily. The chip includes tiny wells that contain antibodies, and the technology monitors antibody binding through impedance measurements performed using electrodes within the device.

Life has been stressful for many people during the pandemic, where illness, lockdowns and general societal turmoil have contributed to mental health issues and chronic stress. Aside from being an unpleasant experience, chronic stress is bad news for our health. Stress can be a big factor in sleep impairment, cardiac issues, and panic attacks, among other conditions.

One of the most effective ways to measure stress levels and provide concrete data on whether interventions are helping to reduce stress involves measuring levels of the stress hormone cortisol in blood. However, this is not convenient at present, as it requires a lab test, using techniques such as ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), which do not easily allow for point-of-care readings and require bulky equipment and highly trained laboratory technicians.

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 By CONN HASTINGS – JULY 8TH, 2021