Next-gen tech can detect disease biomarker in period blood | Penn State University

Penn State researchers led by Professor Dipanjan Pan have developed a groundbreaking diagnostic device that could revolutionize endometriosis detection using menstrual blood, addressing a critical need for the 200 million people worldwide affected by this chronic condition.

The team created a pregnancy test-like device using borophene nanosheets—a novel 2D material derived from boron—that detects HMGB1 protein in menstrual blood with 500% greater sensitivity than existing laboratory methods. Traditional endometriosis diagnosis requires invasive procedures and can take up to 12 years, but this innovative approach offers early, accessible detection through naturally occurring menstrual effluent.

The researchers developed a water-based synthesis method to create pristine borophene nanosheets, which they describe as preparing garden soil before planting. These nanosheets are then equipped with antibodies that capture HMGB1 proteins, creating a uniform foundation for accurate detection. The device could potentially be integrated into menstrual pads for discreet home monitoring.

• Revolutionary borophene-based test strips detect endometriosis biomarkers with unprecedented sensitivity
• Simple, pregnancy test-style device eliminates need for invasive procedures and laboratory analysis
• Potential integration into menstrual products enables convenient at-home health monitoring
• Addresses diagnostic delays that currently average up to 12 years for endometriosis patients