The diversity of electronics components, including sensors, is constantly expanding. In the health field, the sensors industry has produced in recent years multiple sensing devices used by doctors and even athletes to measure seemingly every data point in a human body, from temperature to blood pressure and more. There are even flexible fabrics to apply sensors directly to skin. The sensor has evolved to become a critical ingredient in complex systems involving networks and compute and novel interfaces like smartwatches.
Recently, news from companies in the field has surfaced about advanced research into applying tiny biosensors to microchips, where the sensors can even identify molecules like DNA proteins or antibodies. Interactions between probes can generate a signal that can be detected, like an optical or electrochemical signal. A processor can simultaneously measure multiple targets and help detect patterns. Biochips enable researchers to screen large numbers of biological indicators to diagnose disease and more.
In one example, Australia-based Archer Materials recently reported positive results from its testing of a potassium-sensing biochip device for use in at-home and point-of-care applications. A working prototype is expected in 2026. A low-cost, rapid and accurate measurement of potassium in blood would be useful in frequent testing of people with chronic kidney disease where a clinician’s interaction with a spike in potassium levels can help prevent further risks.
Archer explained on its web site that a biosensor, known as the graphene field effect transistor (gFET), is a key part of the Biochip it is testing. Archer has created three generations of the gFET with multiple foundries and terms the application a miniature ‘lab-on-a-chip.’
Archer said in an Oct. 29 press release that it collaborated with independent R&D center IMEC to show that its blood potassium graphene Biochip can be successfully built on silicon, reducing costs. The first silicon-based devices showed sensing accuracy to meet clinical standards, with readout times of about 30 minutes, faster than conventional methods.The ion-sensing biochip is integrated into disposable cartridges and can analyze a finger-prick of blood.
Archer describes its biochip as one of its two core technologies alongside of a quantum technology called the 12CQ chip for advanced sensing. The 12CQ chip can operate at higher temperatures than other processors and sensors, according to Archer. The company’s first carbon-based qubit demonstration device is expected in 2026.
Some background: While biochips might sound like the latest thing, their predecessors date back to 1922 when a portable, chemistry-based sensor called a glass pH electrode was invented by Hughes. Today, companies are working to provide DNA typing that could be used in cancer diagnoses. Many companies make biochip sensors, including Abbott Laboratories, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Agilent Technologies, Nidus Biosciences, HyPhoX, Medtronic and XanTec.