Every month, new technologies emerge to meet the needs of humanity. In April, specialists from various parts of the world invested knowledge and resources in the creation of devices related to the health area. We separate the five most interesting scientific innovations of this period.
Chip capable of fighting fat in the liver
This month, researchers presented a new device capable of helping to combat hepatic steatosis (better known as fat in the liver). The tool has two chambers connected through a fluidic channel composed of valves. The first and second chambers contain human intestine and liver cell lines, respectively.
Designed using a type of silicone, the tool features additional substances to keep fat molecules away from the chip and prevent unwanted cell growth. In addition, the platform also comes with an integrated micropump and some microvalves that regulate the flow of fluids.
Implant that fights pancreatic cancer
Currently, scientists are investigating the use of a tiny implant, made of stainless steel and loaded with monoclonal (synthetic) antibodies aimed at attacking pancreatic cancer. The device is smaller than a grain of rice. In animal tests, the implant was placed in only one of the tumors in the pancreas, although there were others. The medication had an impact on both, even if one of them was not directly connected with the source of the medication.
AI that predicts stroke
During this period, scientists presented an AI capable of predicting stroke (CVA) and facilitating diagnosis. To develop their stroke prediction algorithm, the scientists used more than 143,000 individual patient records, but the researchers themselves stress that their algorithm is not intended to be a stand-alone model; should be used in conjunction with existing stroke diagnostic models.
vaccine printer
Can you imagine the help a vaccine printer would have in producing hundreds of doses in a few days during the covid-19 pandemic? In this new technology created by MIT scientists, the printer generates patches with microneedles, which can be attached to the skin, allowing the vaccine to dissolve without the need for a traditional injection. Once printed, vaccine patches can be stored for months at room temperature.
Adhesive for administering medication
Rounding off this month’s list of scientific breakthroughs is a patch capable of delivering drugs through the skin. In practice, the technology applies ultrasonic waves to the skin, creating small channels through which medications can pass. The promise is that the process is painless. The idea is to deliver treatments for a variety of skin conditions, but also administer hormones, muscle relaxants and other medications.
