SFU scientists developing early Alzheimer’s disease detection sensor

Researchers from the SFU Nanodevice Fabrication Group are developing a new biosensor that can be used to screen for Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases. An overview of their work was recently published in the journal Nature Communications.

The sensor works by detecting a particular type of small protein, in this case a cytokine known as Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF alpha), which is involved with inflammation in the body. Abnormal cytokine levels have been linked to a wide variety of diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, cancers, autoimmune and heart disease.

“Our goal is to develop a sensor that’s less invasive, less expensive and simpler to use than existing methods,” says professor Michael Adachi from the School of Engineering Science and the project’s co-lead.

“These sensors are also small and have potential to be placed in doctor’s offices to help diagnose different diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.”

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