Graphene biosensors detect critical lactate levels: University of Bath study

A study from the University of Bath has shown that graphene-based biosensors designed by Integrated Graphene can play a major role in detecting increased levels of lactate, an important biomarker for treating critically ill patients.

Sensors and actuators: B. Research published in Chemical suggests that the GI-Sense electrochemical sensor of integrated graphene can improve accuracy in the diagnosis of hyperlactatemia, a common complication in intensive care units.

Hyperlactatemia results from a lack of oxygen reaching the tissues or from an underlying condition, such as advanced liver disease. Untreated hyperlactemia can lead to lactic acidosis, which causes severe illness and can be fatal. Reliable real-time lactate detection through single-point or continuous monitoring may help improve patient outcomes in critical care and accelerate the diagnosis of sepsis in critically ill patients.

Based on Sterling, Integrated Graphene’s flagship product, Gii-Sens is a biosensing electrode for diagnostics that outperforms conventional sensing materials by 10-100 times, allowing cost-effective, lab-accurate testing within minutes when needed Is. Other applications of the technology include quality control in the food production industry and wearable lactate sensors that can be used to monitor athlete performance in real time.

Dr Marco Caffio, co-founder and CSO of Integrated Graphene, said: “Lactate is a naturally occurring biomarker that everyone produces as a by-product of exercise. For most people it is easily processed by the body. Goes and doesn’t do any major harm, except maybe a little cramping if you push yourself too hard.

“However, for some critically ill patients and those with underlying conditions it can be a sign of a range of other issues, some of which, such as sepsis, can be fatal. It is important to have a robust method of monitoring lactate levels for sedation. The findings of this study demonstrate the reliable performance and life-saving potential of Gii.”