Gutenberg University scientists report progress in their attempts to use gold nanoparticles as implantable medical sensors.
The biotechnologists have already shown that this is fundamentally possible.
Placed under the skin, these "antennas" could measure blood sugar levels or the concentration of antibiotics, for example.
Sasha Zoske
Sheet maker in the Rhein-Main-Zeitung.
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The researchers have now tested four different hydrogels that can serve as packaging for the gold particles.
A copolymer called pHEMA-PEGDA performed best.
It forms a kind of mesh structure that surrounds the nanosensors under the skin like a protective shield.
Cells can grow into the pores of the gel (photo).
The gold particles carry a large number of small DNA strands that attach themselves to the substance to be examined.
The gel should retain its function, sit comfortably under the skin, but at the same time be so firm that it can be easily handled with tweezers.
The exact results of the Mainz researchers can be read in their English-language study.