Overview

• Tufts University engineers, led by Professor Sameer Sonkusale, have developed a floss-based biosensor that measures cortisol in saliva for real-time stress monitoring.
• The device integrates microfluidics and electropolymerized molecularly imprinted polymers (eMIPs) to enable precise, non-invasive cortisol detection during daily flossing routines.
• Lab tests have demonstrated the sensor's accuracy is comparable to leading cortisol detection devices, as documented in a peer-reviewed study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.
• Researchers are forming a startup to commercialize the floss sensor, with plans to adapt the technology for tracking additional salivary biomarkers like glucose, estrogen, and cancer markers.
• While not intended for initial clinical diagnoses, the floss sensor is positioned as a tool for ongoing health monitoring, offering potential for personalized wellness management.