Chemical warfare agent detection technology used to treat lung disease
January 2006A team of researchers are using a sensor, commonly used to detect explosives at airports, to develop a new way of diagnosing lung disease.
The microDMx sensor, developed by Sionex Corporation, is being used to develop a new technique which is able to detect 'unhealthy’ molecules present in the breath of a patient.
The technology is currently being tested at Wythenshawe Hospital's North West Lung Research Centre (NWLRC). The aim is to produce a device which will enable doctors to monitor patients with lung or respiratory conditions by simply asking them to breathe into it.
Dr Paul Thomas from the School of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Science, who is leading the research, said: "Our vision is that one day we will be able to detect a previously undetectable tumour metabolising inside a human lung simply by asking a patient to breathe into a device like this. For now our aim is to use the microDMx sensor to develop better instruments which will improve patient care and treatment.
"The potential is such that we will not only be able to provide more accurate diagnosis, but we will also be able to tailor treatments to the individual. For instance, if a patient is taking steroids for asthma, we would be able to determine whether they were being given the right amount of steroids from the molecules in their breath which relate to the severity of the inflammation in their lungs."
NWLRC consultant, Dr Dave Singh, said: “This research could make dramatic improvements to the detection of lung diseases. We are really excited about the future possibilities for diagnosing diseases, and monitoring the response to treatment."
