The University of Texas, Austin has announced a successful trial in monitoring serious neurological and cardiovascular health conditions via digital tattoos. Researchers have discovered that ‘e-tattoos’ can measure patients’ cardiac activity and stress levels. The innovation, introduced in the past decade, has been advanced by the Cockrell School of Engineering. The objective was to achieve a methodology for mobile monitoring of brain activity. This new development from teams from Texas and the University of California, Los Angeles represents improved performance. Conductive ink can now be applied to patients to measure brainwaves. The procedure is not hindered by the amount or texture of the patient’s hair. The ink replaces traditional sensors and can detect brain tumours and other neurological issues. Research Lead Nanshu Lu says: “The holy grail for EEG is a sensor that patients can wear for long periods of time, outside the clinical setting and without the need for constant maintenance.” Image credit: University of Texas, Austin
