Wearable multiplexed aptasensors for real-time emotive monitoring
This innovative platform uses wearable aptasensors embedded in a buccal cavity prosthetic to monitor cortisol, alpha-amylase, and oxytocin levels in real-time. By integrating machine learning, it identifies consumer-response signatures related to stress, arousal, and social engagement, providing insights into product and package performance.
Overview
The wearable multiplexed aptasensors platform offers a groundbreaking solution for real-time emotive monitoring by measuring key biomarkers in saliva. Designed as a tiny device embedded within a buccal cavity prosthetic, it allows for direct chemical, biological, and physiological sensing. The platform focuses on cortisol, alpha-amylase, and oxytocin, which are pivotal in understanding stress dynamics, cognitive effort, and social-emotional engagement, respectively. By leveraging machine learning, the system integrates biomarker data to create consumer-response signatures, offering valuable insights into how consumers interact with products and packaging.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Electric-field-programmable aptasensors for dynamic biomarker measurement
- Sensitivity range for cortisol detection from 1.0 fM to 1.0 µM
- Integration of machine learning for pattern recognition of consumer responses
- Designed for use with Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) for easy wearability
- Capable of analyzing consumer interactions with products regarding stress, arousal, and social engagement
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, the technology is undergoing optimization and validation for saliva sensing of the specified biomarkers. Initial stages include perfecting sensitivity, selectivity, and repeatability, followed by pilot studies to assess consumer interaction under varying conditions. Future plans involve training machine learning models to enhance predictive capabilities of consumer preferences and behaviors.
About Rice University
Rice University is a private research university in Houston recognized for small scale and intensive research. Industry engages through on-campus design and prototyping facilities and multi-tenant research space adjacent to the Texas Medical Center, enabling clinical collaboration and rapid validation. A university-backed innovation district in central Houston links corporate R&D with faculty labs, startups, and talent, and proximity to the Energy Corridor and NASA’s Johnson Space Center provides access to regional clusters. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, NASA, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing, startup formation, and streamlined sponsored research agreements.
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