Scientists developed a new type of real-time detection sensor estrogen

As scientists have developed a new generation of sensors to facilitate monitoring of the patient, recently scientists from New Zealand, has also introduced a new type of sensor devices, which can help detect the body's estrogen levels, but does not carry the disadvantages of the current technology and drawbacks.
Researchers from Victoria University of Wellington, said the new sensor detects when the body's hormones, which can be screened in a lower level of liquid estrogen by sending an electrical signal, the sensor through DNA- aptamer trapping small fragments ( Aptamers) to play a role, but aptamer can "seize" the estrogen molecule, sensor devices such as transistors similar nanotubes, if the estrogen molecules are present, they would release an electrical signal.
The researchers examined the biological fluids of two lengths of such devices, one of which has 35 units long, and the other is 75 units long, found that shorter length sensor device can generate signals for mark the presence of the hormone estrogen. The longer the sensor device and does not induce an electrical signal, which may be because its surface is difficult to promote aptamer to capture estrogen molecules resulting in current. The study, published in the International Journal Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology B on.
The researchers said in a statement that this new type of sensor devices can provide an advantage in conventional screening methods, and its simple design includes a real-time reader, and consume less energy, but also with electronic monitoring system combination. The researchers next plan in a real biological fluids (such as urine) for testing the device, but the researchers also very concerned about the different applications of the technology, such as considering the use of this device is not just estrogen molecule screening.
The researchers, Professor Natalie Plank said aptamer may be a potentially powerful tool sensor, because it has a universal and selective, he believes the team will develop a final or equipment for other molecular diagnostic techniques and more application.