Lab-on-a-chip makes rapid assessment of immune system

Using microfluidics and electrical sensors, the new chip from NTU Singapore was able to detect differences in the electrical properties of white blood cells taken from healthy and diabetic patients.

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According to NTU, the proof-of-concept device could one day help doctors to quickly gain insights into a person’s immune system and spot early signs of inflammation and infection that could signal the need for further in-depth tests. A prototype device and the engineering principles behind it were reported earlier in the year in Lab on a Chip.

Designed and built by Assistant Professor Hou Han Wei and Assistant Professor Holden Li from the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, their device, if successful in further laboratory and clinical assessments, could be turned into a portable device suitable for GP’s surgeries and polyclinics.