Microscopic sensors that are as thin as a hair and can perform multiple measurements simultaneously could revolutionize the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases such as cancer.
Researchers from the University of Adelaide’s Institute of Photonics and Advanced Sensing and Germany’s University of Stuttgart have collaborated to develop a miniature sensor using cutting-edge ultra-fast 3D microprinting technology.
The unique sensor targets specific biomarkers and is printed directly onto the tip of the optical fiber. Multiple signals such as temperature and chemical changes can be monitored simultaneously.
This breakthrough could lead to the next generation of medical tools to track disease, guide treatment, and monitor the body in real time.
Sensors can provide reliable and clear information about the presence of disease in a minimally invasive manner. This paves the way for smarter tools in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and wearable technology. ”
Associate Professor Shahraam Afshar, Project Principal Investigator, Institute of Photonics and Advanced Sensing, University of Adelaide
Researchers have been working on this new technology for several years. This new technology works by detecting changes in the body caused by cancer at the molecular level through light.
“The molecules emit light when they come into contact with cancer byproducts, and the amount of light they emit depends on the concentration of cancer cells. By inserting a sensor into the tissue and measuring the amount of light emitted, we think we can determine the presence of cancer,” he said.
This is an important development that builds on existing methods that can only measure one biomarker at a time.
“It is very difficult to simultaneously measure or detect various signals emitted from a living environment such as the human body,” said Associate Professor Afshar.
“If you can only measure one biomarker at a time, it is difficult to determine whether the change is caused by cancer or another problem.
“This is why our method is so innovative in that it provides accurate information to medical professionals instantly.”
The study was published in the journal advanced optical materials It will also benefit from a recent $1.32 million Australian Research Council Linked Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant. This will help establish a world-class high-precision micro and nano printing facility at the University of Adelaide.
“Having access to the latest laser printing technology will allow us to continue our research and hopefully detect even more biomarkers, such as changes in pH and redox,” said Associate Professor Afshar.
“We will be able to create prototypes faster, build more complex structures, and apply what we learn to a broader range of biomedical fields.
“We think that in the future we could work with hospitals to refine the technology and have it available within the next 10 years.”
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Reference magazines:
Asrani, V. others. (2026). 3D microprinting of structures with lanthanide-based fluorophores on optical fibers for multiplexed sensing (Advanced Optical Materials 9/2026). Advanced optical materials. DOI: 10.1002/adom.70992. https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adom.70992
