Ecofriendly Optical Sensor for Early Cholesterol Detection

In April 2025, researchers at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, developed a cost-effective and ecofriendly optical sensing platform for early cholesterol detection, aiding in the diagnosis of serious diseases.

Key Points

Innovative Platform: The cholesterol sensor is based on silk fibre functionalized with phosphorene quantum dots, offering high sensitivity at a low cost.
Health Impact: Early detection of cholesterol levels is vital, as imbalances are linked to diseases such as atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction, hypertension, thrombosis, and even cancer.
Point-of-Care Ready: A lab-scale point-of-care (POC) device has been developed, capable of detecting even trace amounts of cholesterol for routine monitoring.
Biological Relevance: Cholesterol plays a vital role in the body but must be balanced. LDL ("bad" cholesterol) can build up in arteries, while HDL ("good" cholesterol) helps remove excess fat from blood vessels.
Strategic Significance: This development supports personalized healthcare and aligns with India's efforts to boost indigenous and sustainable medical technologies.