Wireless sweat patch for real-time C-reactive-protein monitoring
InflaStat is a wireless, wearable patch developed by Caltech that enables non-invasive, real-time monitoring of C-reactive protein (CRP) in sweat. By analyzing this inflammatory biomarker, the device offers a convenient, point-of-care alternative to traditional blood tests for patients managing chronic inflammatory conditions. Using laser-engraved graphene and microfluidic technology, the patch provides sensitive, calibrated data to help patients and healthcare professionals track inflammatory health trends effectively.
Overview
The wireless sweat patch, known as InflaStat, is a wearable, non-invasive diagnostic device developed by researchers at the California Institute of Technology. It enables the real-time, electrochemical detection of C-reactive protein (CRP) in sweat, which serves as a molecular hallmark of inflammation. By providing a convenient alternative to blood tests, this sensor facilitates personalized monitoring of inflammatory status in patients with chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, and various infections.
Technical specifications
- Iontophoretic module for on-demand, controlled sweat extraction.
- Microfluidic channels designed for automated sweat sampling, reagent routing, and replacement.
- Graphene-based sensor array functionalized with gold-nanoparticle-conjugated anti-CRP antibodies to achieve picomolar-level sensitivity.
- Integrated sensors for real-time calibration of ionic strength, pH, and temperature to account for sweat matrix variations.
- Wireless transmission capabilities for continuous data monitoring.
- Flexible, skin-interfaced design for comfortable, long-term wear.
Technology readiness level
The technology is at TRL 4 (Lab validation). Researchers have successfully designed and tested the device, demonstrating its performance through studies involving both healthy subjects and patient populations with chronic inflammatory diseases. The results showed a strong correlation between sweat-derived CRP levels and those found in serum, proving the device's potential for clinical monitoring. It remains a research-based diagnostic tool rather than a commercially available product.
About California Institute of Technology
Caltech is a private, STEM-focused research university in Pasadena, notable for its small size, graduate intensity, and tightly integrated academic–research culture. Companies engage through shared user facilities for micro/nanofabrication and advanced instrumentation, prototyping shops, and contract mechanisms managed by experienced corporate‑partnership staff. An affiliated NASA laboratory, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the surrounding Southern California aerospace and deep‑tech cluster provide unique pathways to mission‑driven engineering, rigorous testing, and specialized suppliers. Research here is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, NASA, and the Department of Defense. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP protection, licensing, and startup formation, connecting innovators with investors and regional accelerators.
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