Scientists at the University of Connecticut have developed a handheld ‘pocket microscope’ that directly visualizes DNA and proteins in living cells without stains or labels. The system uses deep-ultraviolet light to map molecules with femtogram sensitivity, achieving 308-nanometer resolution across centimeter-wide areas. The device enables instant pathology diagnosis, identifies cancer cells, and maps brain neurons -- all while preserving samples’ natural state. This technology could transform medical diagnostics, from operating rooms to space missions.

In International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing, researchers have created a new class of ultrathin hydrogel electrodes that could finally make long-term wearable health monitoring practical, bringing the promise of 24/7 and high-fidelity health monitoring closer to reality.

> First development of an optical microneedle device in the world that resolves the shortcomings of conventional enzyme measurement methods

> High-precision glucose quantification achieved with sub-nanoliter sample volumes

> Boronic acid, which binds quantitatively and reversibly to glucose, is incorporated into microneedles made of polylactic acid to create a fluorescent hydrogel¹ sensor.

> In the future, it is expected to be applied to various clinical tests using interstitial fluid without the need for blood sampling.

> Published in the Journal of Materials Chemistry B²

 http://doi.org/10.1039/D5TB00385G