The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has announced a project with the U.S. Army Research Office to develop tissue-integrated biosensor technology. The development will be led by San Francisco startup Profusa, which has been awarded a $7.5 million grant.
The U.S. military is interested in developing the technology to assist in real-time monitoring of soldiers’ health. Profusa intends to utilise a biosensor that will provide a continuous steam of data on biomarkers such as oxygen, glucose, lactate, urea and ions. Allegedly, the company’s biosensor design is able to combat the body’s reaction to reject foreign materials, as it is made with a “smart hydrogel” similar to contact lens material. The biosensors are designed to be compatible with body tissues for up to two years.
Furthermore, the sensors interface with an optical reader that communicates with a smartphone application that provides users with real-time information. Data is also shared through digital networks, which will help health analysts perform long-term studies.