OSU researchers create artificial enzyme for fast detection of disease-related hormone in sweat

(MARCH 31, 2023) Oregon State University engineers have made a new handheld tool that measures sweat to detect cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that can indicate a variety of illnesses, including some cancers. The device can also be adapted to test for other hormones, like progesterone, which helps monitor women's reproductive health. The new tool uses artificial enzymes, which are more stable than natural enzymes and can last longer. (An enzyme is a chemical substance produced by living cells that makes particular chemical reactions happen in animals and plants.)

Cortisol is a hormone that helps fight infections, maintain blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar and metabolism. It is sometimes called the "stress hormone" because it's released when people are under pressure. However, prolonged periods of high cortisol levels can have harmful effects on the body, like an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and heart disease.

The new tool can measure cortisol levels in sweat within a few minutes. This makes it a faster and more convenient alternative to the blood and urine tests that are commonly used in clinics. Additionally, the tool is sensitive and selective. That means it can reliably detect cortisol levels. The device can be used for point-of-care applications. For example, it can be used at a patient's bedside or for wearable applications, which opens up new avenues for health monitoring.