Advances in health care mean better quality of life for people around the globe. CNSE's nanobioscience researchers are creating new nano applications in the life sciences, medical devices and pharmaceuticals.

Researchers at the University at Albany’s College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) have developed a cutting-edge biosensor that can detect toxins and contaminants in a human body, and have already successfully tested a prototype with the ability to detect diseases ranging from botulism to tuberculosis.

Here’s how it works: the biosensor – essentially a computer chip – contains a fluidic system that allows cells and tissues to be moved around on the chip. It is then plugged into a device that “reads” the chip, and is able to quickly determine if toxins and/or contaminants are present – without having to send samples to a lab.

Importantly, the biosensor is also highly mobile, giving it the ability to provide rapid “point-of-care” screenings, in locations ranging from hospitals and health care clinics to mines or other remote locations.

Interestingly, the biosensor was developed using semiconductor industry infrastructure for microprocessors.

UAlbany CNSE is currently talking to private companies that would have the ability to take the technology into the marketplace.