Wearable transdermal hormone sensor for IVF monitoring
Developed from research at RMIT University, this wearable transdermal patch uses microneedles to monitor hormone levels in interstitial fluid. Designed to streamline IVF treatment, the device enables convenient, at-home, and pain-free monitoring, replacing the need for frequent laboratory blood draws. The technology is being commercialized by Symex Labs, with plans for clinical pilots and a potential market release in 2028. Its utility extends beyond IVF to include managing hormonal conditions like PCOS and menopause.
Overview
This wearable transdermal hormone sensor is a diagnostic technology designed to simplify and improve the experience of women undergoing IVF treatment. By replacing traditional, frequent blood draws with a convenient, at-home patch, the device allows for continuous, pain-free hormone monitoring. The system is intended to provide clinicians with precise data to optimally time critical procedures like egg collection and embryo transfers, potentially increasing the likelihood of successful pregnancy outcomes while reducing the need for clinic visits and manual injections.
Technical specifications
The device utilizes a patch-based design incorporating microscopic microneedles to access and measure hormone concentrations in the interstitial fluid located just beneath the skin. Key features include:
- Continuous monitoring of progesterone and oestradiol levels.
- Microneedle-based interface for pain-free, transdermal sampling.
- Detection of hormone binding to sensor surfaces, which generates electrical signals proportional to hormone concentration.
- Automatic data transmission to clinical monitoring systems for nurse and doctor review.
- Potential for integration with consumer health applications to support long-term management of hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), perimenopause, and menopause.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4. Developed from foundational research at RMIT University, the platform has been licensed to the startup Symex Labs for further engineering, design, and clinical validation. The technology is in the development phase, with ongoing world-first clinical studies to benchmark interstitial hormone levels against blood samples. The first in-human pilot study is planned for the near future, and commercialization is targeted for early 2028.
About RMIT University
RMIT University is a comprehensive public research university with a technology‑and‑design focus, anchored in Melbourne and globally connected. Industry engagement spans work‑integrated learning and co‑developed projects, enabled by co‑located facilities such as the Advanced Manufacturing Precinct and the MicroNano Research Facility. A city‑centered innovation ecosystem—incorporating the City North Social Innovation Precinct and the Melbourne Innovation Districts partnership—links researchers with partners for prototyping and scale‑up. Research is backed by competitive national funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, and the Medical Research Future Fund. Technology transfer and RMIT Activator support IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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