Many people are uncomfortable with having blood drawn from their arm with a needle, leading researchers at ETH Zurich to develop a new device that works according to the leech principle. This device is less invasive and easier to handle than traditional needle-based methods. Although it cannot collect as much blood as a needle, it can collect significantly more than a finger prick, making diagnostic measurements more reliable. The device uses a suction cup with microneedles that create negative pressure to collect blood from the patient’s upper arm or back, making the process less painful and reducing the risk of injury.
The idea for the new device came from the researchers’ previous work on a suction cup that delivered medication through the mucous membrane in the mouth. Inspired by leeches, which use negative pressure to suck blood from their hosts, the researchers developed a similar system for collecting blood samples. The device has the potential to be cost-effective, making it suitable for low-income regions where it could be used to diagnose diseases such as malaria. The microneedles within the suction cup minimize the risk of injury during application and disposal compared to conventional needles.
In the current version of the device, the suction cup is made of silicone, and the microneedles are made of steel. However, the researchers are working on developing a new version made from fully biodegradable materials to create a more sustainable product. They have conducted tests on pigs and have compiled comprehensive manufacturing information to prepare for potential market launch. Further optimization of the material composition and safety testing with a small group of human subjects are still needed before the device can be widely used, particularly in regions where traditional blood sampling methods are impractical or inaccessible.
The researchers are seeking a partner for further funding to support the testing and development of their new device. They hope that the device will soon be able to contribute to the health of individuals who are afraid of needles, particularly children. The potential applications of the device extend beyond traditional medical settings to include low-income regions where access to diagnostic tools is limited. By providing a more reliable and less invasive method of collecting blood samples, the new device has the potential to improve healthcare outcomes and make diagnostic testing more accessible to a wider range of patients.
