Periodic Reporting for period 1 - MiWear (Mid-infrared Wearable for Non-invasive biomarker monitoring)
Reporting period: 2024-01-01 to 2024-12-31
Healthcare today primarily addresses problems after symptoms appear, a reactive approach that often falls short for chronic conditions like metabolic syndrome (MbS). MbS, a growing health issue in Europe, is closely linked to the increasing prevalence of obesity and contributes to severe complications such as arteriosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. With a 68% higher risk of sudden cardiac deaths among affected individuals, early detection and intervention are critical.
The MiWear project addresses these challenges by developing a miniature Mid-Infrared (MIR) spectrometer for real-time, non-invasive health monitoring. This technology, currently confined to laboratory settings due to its size and cost, will be integrated into a wearable device capable of measuring key biomarkers like uric acid, albumin, and ketone bodies directly through the skin. By simultaneously analyzing multiple biomarkers with lab-level precision, MiWear enables personalized healthcare, reducing misdiagnoses and facilitating proactive disease management.
MiWear integrates expertise in optical spectroscopy, laser physics, artificial intelligence, and biomedical research, including the gender dimensions of health. The project’s pathway to impact includes advancing scientific knowledge, fostering innovation in healthcare technology, and promoting sustainability by minimizing waste and healthcare costs. Through collaboration with stakeholders and active dissemination, MiWear aims to make cutting-edge health monitoring accessible and relevant to diverse populations across Europe.
The MiWear project addresses these challenges by developing a miniature Mid-Infrared (MIR) spectrometer for real-time, non-invasive health monitoring. This technology, currently confined to laboratory settings due to its size and cost, will be integrated into a wearable device capable of measuring key biomarkers like uric acid, albumin, and ketone bodies directly through the skin. By simultaneously analyzing multiple biomarkers with lab-level precision, MiWear enables personalized healthcare, reducing misdiagnoses and facilitating proactive disease management.
MiWear integrates expertise in optical spectroscopy, laser physics, artificial intelligence, and biomedical research, including the gender dimensions of health. The project’s pathway to impact includes advancing scientific knowledge, fostering innovation in healthcare technology, and promoting sustainability by minimizing waste and healthcare costs. Through collaboration with stakeholders and active dissemination, MiWear aims to make cutting-edge health monitoring accessible and relevant to diverse populations across Europe.
The MiWear project has made significant progress in developing a wearable Mid-Infrared (MIR) spectrometer for real-time, non-invasive health monitoring. By combining advanced laser technology, biomarker analysis, and system integration, it addresses the critical needs of metabolic syndrome (MbS) detection. Key components of the MIR spectrometer, such as Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) chips and wavelength-selecting filters, were successfully designed and fabricated, achieving lab-grade sensitivity while meeting the size and power constraints required for wearable technology.
Reference measurements were conducted on aqueous and synthetic biomarker samples using MIR equipment, establishing a robust database for calibration and validation. Dermal interstitial fluid (dISF) was extracted from human skin samples, providing essential data for biomarker detection. Preparations are now underway to test the spectrometer on ex-vivo human skin, which will benchmark its performance under physiologically relevant conditions.
A modular AI framework was developed to process spectral data and quantify biomarkers, demonstrating strong prediction accuracy and scalability for real-time applications. This framework continues to be refined with expanded datasets to enhance its performance. Additionally, the project integrated sex and gender dimensions into biomedical research, hosting a workshop with partners and embedding these considerations into device development, user acceptance, and scalability. A first draft clinical trial outline was also developed and reviewed with partners, paving the way for real-world device testing.
These efforts have laid the foundation for validating the spectrometer’s capabilities and advancing its application in proactive healthcare solutions.
Reference measurements were conducted on aqueous and synthetic biomarker samples using MIR equipment, establishing a robust database for calibration and validation. Dermal interstitial fluid (dISF) was extracted from human skin samples, providing essential data for biomarker detection. Preparations are now underway to test the spectrometer on ex-vivo human skin, which will benchmark its performance under physiologically relevant conditions.
A modular AI framework was developed to process spectral data and quantify biomarkers, demonstrating strong prediction accuracy and scalability for real-time applications. This framework continues to be refined with expanded datasets to enhance its performance. Additionally, the project integrated sex and gender dimensions into biomedical research, hosting a workshop with partners and embedding these considerations into device development, user acceptance, and scalability. A first draft clinical trial outline was also developed and reviewed with partners, paving the way for real-world device testing.
These efforts have laid the foundation for validating the spectrometer’s capabilities and advancing its application in proactive healthcare solutions.
Results
Designed and fabricated laser componets with lab-grade sensitivity.
Built a reference database of biomarker spectra for calibration and validation.
Extracted dermal interstitial fluid (dISF) from human skin, generating crucial data for biomarker analysis.
Developed an AI framework for spectral data processing and biomarker quantification, demonstrating high prediction accuracy and scalability for real-time applications.
Integrated gender-specific considerations into device development, ensuring inclusivity and relevance across diverse populations.
Prepared a clinical trial outline for real-world device validation.
Potential Impacts
The MiWear device has the potential to shift healthcare from a reactive to a proactive model, enabling early detection and management of MbS and other chronic conditions. By providing real-time insights, it supports personalized healthcare, reducing misdiagnoses and improving treatment outcomes.
The transition of MIR spectrometry from laboratory settings to wearable devices opens new markets in consumer health tech and clinical diagnostics. This technology is particularly relevant for addressing the growing demand for portable, non-invasive health monitoring solutions.
Advances in photonics and AI-driven biomarker analysis position Europe as a leader in wearable health technology.
The project fosters innovation and provides opportunities for young researchers, contributing to a skilled workforce.
The technology’s scalability supports market expansion, generating economic growth and creating high-quality jobs.
Key Needs for Further Uptake and Success
Validate the device through ex-vivo studies and clinical trials.
Refine AI models for diverse population accuracy.
Secure funding for scaling and commercialization.
Address regulatory and interoperability standards for medical devices.
Protect intellectual property and define final business model.
By addressing these needs, the MiWear project aims to accelerate the translation of its innovations into impactful healthcare solutions, fostering widespread adoption and long-term success.
Designed and fabricated laser componets with lab-grade sensitivity.
Built a reference database of biomarker spectra for calibration and validation.
Extracted dermal interstitial fluid (dISF) from human skin, generating crucial data for biomarker analysis.
Developed an AI framework for spectral data processing and biomarker quantification, demonstrating high prediction accuracy and scalability for real-time applications.
Integrated gender-specific considerations into device development, ensuring inclusivity and relevance across diverse populations.
Prepared a clinical trial outline for real-world device validation.
Potential Impacts
The MiWear device has the potential to shift healthcare from a reactive to a proactive model, enabling early detection and management of MbS and other chronic conditions. By providing real-time insights, it supports personalized healthcare, reducing misdiagnoses and improving treatment outcomes.
The transition of MIR spectrometry from laboratory settings to wearable devices opens new markets in consumer health tech and clinical diagnostics. This technology is particularly relevant for addressing the growing demand for portable, non-invasive health monitoring solutions.
Advances in photonics and AI-driven biomarker analysis position Europe as a leader in wearable health technology.
The project fosters innovation and provides opportunities for young researchers, contributing to a skilled workforce.
The technology’s scalability supports market expansion, generating economic growth and creating high-quality jobs.
Key Needs for Further Uptake and Success
Validate the device through ex-vivo studies and clinical trials.
Refine AI models for diverse population accuracy.
Secure funding for scaling and commercialization.
Address regulatory and interoperability standards for medical devices.
Protect intellectual property and define final business model.
By addressing these needs, the MiWear project aims to accelerate the translation of its innovations into impactful healthcare solutions, fostering widespread adoption and long-term success.