Anat Usatinsky

Conference 2023 Live Talk

Talk title

Implantable, battery-free, Bluetooth-enabled, multiwavelength spectroscopy device for the remote monitoring of physiological biomarkers

Authors and Affiliations

Anat Usatinsky 1,2, Daniel Franklin 1,2

1. Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College St Room 407, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G9, Canada
2. Ted Rogers Center for Heart Research, 661 University Ave, 14th Floor, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1M1, Canada

Abstract

Background

Implantable medical devices have yet to utilize modular multiwavelength spectroscopy to its full extent. Spectroscopy is a non-invasive analytical technique allowing the probing of the chemical and physical structure of tissues for the identification of biomarkers and physiological processes. The need for spectral implants is partly attributed to the innate limitation of light penetration depth. Currently, bulky instrumentation and power consumption needs pose a challenge in implementing this solution. The recent miniaturization of optical sensors and advanced microprocessors enabled the use of spectroscopy systems in compact implantable formats, providing access to vital data.

Methods

Leveraging collaborations with industry leaders, our lab aims to evaluate the use of spectral sensors to monitor physiological biomarkers via a clinically translational implant. We first integrated the miniaturized spectrometers onto implantable platforms by adapting previous designs to allow for red, near-infrared, and green LED capabilities. We then demonstrated its functionality in-vitro by analyzing programmable device settings by applying them to a wired version to determine their impact on the overall current consumption. These settings were then tested on wireless devices placed in an RF setup to find the limitations of the power harvesting system. In preparation for in-vivo studies, devices were encapsulated with a layer of parylene and PDMS. To evaluate the device’s clinical performance, they were inserted into rodents and optimized settings were applied.

Results

The data received was analyzed for the detection of slight variations in respiratory and heart rate. By showing that our technology could detect changes in these biomarkers, we demonstrate the use of an implantable, multiwavelength, Bluetooth-operated, RF utilizing, modular-biosensor, in tracking deep tissue hemodynamics.

Conclusions

The novelty of this approach is in providing accessible and modular platforms that improve the duration and resolution of biomarker monitoring. Currently, we are further displaying device application in clinical settings via hypoxia studies, extending its wireless power capabilities, and exploring various biomaterial coatings. The need for devices allowing for real-time and precise hemodynamic measurements increases with the growing strain on healthcare accompanied by the rising prevalence of cardiovascular and hemodynamic disorders. This technology will aid in earlier disease detection, improved prognosis, and continuous tracking.