IIT-Kanpur Signs MoU with Hyd-Based Sensa Core to Make & Sale Bilirubin Detection Device

This collaboration aims to create and sell a sensor tailored to quickly analyse direct and total bilirubin levels in human blood or serum. The sensor employs advanced technology, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of bilirubin levels in less than a minute.

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Sensa Core Medical Instrumentation, a Hyderabad-based company for technology transfer. This collaboration aims to manufacture and sell a sensor designed for the rapid analysis of direct and total bilirubin in human blood/serum.

Developed at the National Centre for Flexible Electronics (NCFlexE) by Prof Siddhartha Panda and Dr Nishant Verma, the sensor incorporates cutting-edge technology that enables simultaneous detection of bilirubin levels within a minute.

Bilirubin is a crucial pigment present in the blood, and its accurate detection plays a vital role in diagnosing various health conditions, including neonatal jaundice.

In India, this clinical condition affects approximately 60% of full-term and 80% of preterm newborns, with a mortality rate of 7.3 per 1000 live births. Therefore, developing a sensor that can rapidly and accurately detect bilirubin levels is paramount for ensuring timely medical interventions and improving healthcare outcomes.

The sensor developed at IIT-Kanpur utilises a non-enzymatic electrochemical sensing strip. This strip offers several advantages over traditional methods of bilirubin detection.

Firstly, it enables the detection of total bilirubin using just a single drop of blood or serum. This minimises the invasiveness of the procedure, making it more comfortable for patients, particularly infants.

Additionally, the non-enzymatic nature of the strip eliminates the need for enzymatic reactions, reducing the complexity and cost of the detection process.

One of the key features of the sensor is its unique five-electrode configuration.

Unlike conventional methods, which require separate tests for direct and total bilirubin, this innovative technology enables their simultaneous detection on a single strip. This not only saves time but also provides a comprehensive analysis of bilirubin levels, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis of various health conditions.

Central to the sensor's functionality is a novel material called the 'trimetallic nanocomposite-based catalyst.' This material effectively detects bilirubin levels in the presence of other components in the blood or serum sample.

Its unique properties ensure accurate and reliable results, even in complex biological matrices. The incorporation of this catalyst in the sensor enhances its sensitivity and specificity, making it a valuable tool for healthcare professionals.

By simplifying and streamlining the detection of bilirubin levels, this novel sensor has the potential to enhance the diagnosis and management of various health conditions.

The rapid analysis provided by the sensor facilitates timely interventions, enabling healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and provide appropriate treatments promptly. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of the non-enzymatic electrochemical sensing strip makes it accessible to a broader population, ensuring equitable healthcare delivery.

Last month, IIT Kanpur also initiated a three-way partnership with Kalyan Singh Super Specialty Cancer Institute (KSSSCI), a renowned institution operated by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Karkinos Healthcare.

Together, they are working towards establishing the 'Centre for Advanced Molecular Diagnostics and Research for Cancer (CAMDRC)' in Lucknow. This initiative aligns with the growing trend in cancer care, emphasising molecular diagnostics to enable personalised treatments driven by genetic insights, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.