Miniaturized Infrared Spectrometer for Body Chemistry Monitoring

MRC proposes to develop a miniaturized infrared-based sensor for monitoring patient body chemistry in the field or at remote sites. The instrument performs chemometric analysis on infrared spectra to identify blood chemical concentrations. Key features of the instrument are its portability, low-power consumption, and the ability to program it for a specific application. Technology originally developed for military infrared sensors and for testing such sensors, now available for dual-use purposes, makes the instrument a practical reality. Phase I of the program will focus on performance analysis and preliminary design of the sensor. One application area to be considered is non-invasive monitoring of blood chemistry, in particular, glucose monitoring in diabetic patients. The other application involves "on the scene" invasive blood chemical analysis for identification of poisions, abused drugs, and chemicals present in battlefield environments. Anticipated Benefits: A non-invasive blood glucose monitor would benefit the approximately 2.5 million American that suffer diabetes mellitus. Progress in the field of artificial organs, such as the artificial pancreas, depends on the availability of this type of miniaturized sensor to continuously monitor blood chemistry. The sensor will benefit emergency medical personnel by helping them to make rapid assessments of foreign substances in blood. Slight modifications will allow use in environmental monitoring, cleanup, and compliance.