Researchers at the University of Exeter have introduced a compact diagnostic device that can detect several diseases from tiny blood samples. The breakthrough was showcased at a major science festival in Exeter, highlighting a tool that promises faster, less invasive testing across multiple health conditions.
The technology requires just 10 microliters of blood to operate, a fraction of the volume used in standard hospital tests. Blood is drawn into a small chamber where it passes over a matrix illuminated from beneath. Gold nanoparticles scatter the light, and the resulting pattern shifts depending on the biomarkers present. This optical fingerprinting enables precise quantification of specific molecules in the blood.
One prominent application is the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease by tracking tau protein levels that accumulate in brain tissue. Elevated tau is linked to the onset and progression of the disease, though current diagnostic approaches often rely on expensive imaging or invasive procedures. The Exeter team notes that nine proteins can be measured, with seven closely tied to tau, forming a biomarker signature that could reveal the earliest signs of cognitive decline.
Initial testing uses a desktop version of the device, but researchers are pursuing a portable model suitable for home use. The test delivers results in about seven minutes and can assess up to 20 different biomarkers in a single run. The current cost of an analysis is estimated at 10 to 15 pounds per test.
Beyond cognitive health, the system already demonstrates the capability to detect long COVID from a single drop of blood. Plans are underway to adapt the technology for childhood allergy screening, with expectations that a consumer-friendly version will be ready in the near future. Projections also point to future uses in screening for menopause, fertility health, and general healthy aging. Additional potential applications include early screening for sepsis, liver health, and diabetes management.
Earlier efforts in this field produced the first sensor capable of monitoring donor organ rejection, marking a significant step toward rapid, noninvasive medical assessments. The Exeter initiative continues to push the boundaries of how small samples and optical analytics can illuminate a wide range of health conditions, potentially enabling earlier detection and more accessible testing for patients around the world.