IIT Madras Biosensor for Early Preeclampsia

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IIT Madras researchers have created a 30-minute test for preeclampsia, a dangerous pregnancy condition affecting 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide.

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The rapid biosensor detects low levels of Placental growth factor (PlGF), which drops significantly in women with preeclampsia compared to healthy pregnancies.

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Unlike current methods requiring hours, expensive equipment, and trained technicians, this new test works with just a tiny droplet of blood and minimal infrastructure.

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The breakthrough uses plastic optical fibers instead of glass ones—making the test cheaper, stronger, and more practical for remote areas with limited healthcare.

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Most impressively, the test can identify at-risk pregnancies as early as 11-13 weeks, allowing doctors to prescribe preventive low-dose aspirin treatment.

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The environmentally friendly technology eliminates harsh chemicals, uses recyclable materials, and could potentially be adapted to detect cancer, tuberculosis, and Alzheimer's.

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After successful clinical validation, researchers are now planning large-scale patient testing and prototype development to bring this life-saving technology to hospitals worldwide.

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