IDEA #6LIDYW Non-invasive biological marker detection via co-injection of an optical sensor and in situ gelling hydrogel. 24A0010

Key Words: non-invasive detection; biomarker; optical nanosensor; fluorescence; hydrogel, methylcellulose. This invention fills the unmet need of non-invasive biomarker detection. It is a fluorescent nanosensor that can be engineered to detect most biological markers of disease which is co-injected with a hydrogel which is liquid before injection but forms a solid gel upon injection. This allows the sensor to stay in one place and monitor biomarker levels over time. Previous versions of fluorescent sensors either required a) invasive surgical implantation or b) injection and subsequent dissemination throughout the body. Co-injection with the in situ gelling hydrogel removes both of these barriers.