A Breakthrough in Gastric Health Diagnostics

Early detection of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is crucial in preventing severe conditions like gastritis, ulcers, and even stomach cancer. traditionally, diagnosing this bacterium has been a complex and costly endeavor. However,researchers at teh University of Ulm have pioneered a novel,miniaturized sensor system designed for rapid,cost-effective,and mobile breath analysis,marking a meaningful advancement in diagnostic technology.

The Science Behind the Sensor: Mimicking Bacterial Survival

The innovative approach leverages the bacterium’s own survival mechanisms for detection. Professor Boris Mizaikoff, head of the Institute for Analytical and Bioanalytic Chemistry at the University of Ulm and the Hahn-Schickard location Ulm, explains, We have developed an infrared sensor system that can prove Helicobacter pylori through a mobile breath test. The technology has great potential for miniaturization and is inexpensive. The team’s findings are detailed in the journal ACS Sensors. The team is now focused on developing a smartphone-compatible version for personalized, on-the-go use.

We have developed an infrared sensor system that can prove Helicobacter pylori through a mobile breath test.The technology has great potential for miniaturization and is inexpensive.

Professor Boris Mizaikoff, University of Ulm

Infrared Spectroscopy: A cost-Effective Option

the Ulm scientists employ mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy to analyze breath samples. This method offers a more affordable and miniaturizable alternative to traditional mass spectrometry. Dr. Gabriela Flores Rangel, a postdoctoral chemist in Mizaikoff’s group and a corresponding author of the study, notes, MIR spectroscopy is particularly suitable for the gas phase analysis of molecules such as carbon dioxide, which absorb lights in the infrared spectrum particularly well. Dr. Lorena Daz de Leon Martinez also contributed to the project.

MIR spectroscopy is particularly suitable for the gas phase analysis of molecules such as carbon dioxide, which absorb lights in the infrared spectrum particularly well.

Dr. Gabriela Flores Rangel, University of Ulm

exploiting H. pylori’s Unique Defense Mechanism

H. pylori thrives in the harsh acidic environment of the stomach by creating a chemical shield using the enzyme urease. This enzyme breaks down urea into carbon dioxide and ammonia, neutralizing stomach acid. Researchers target the carbon dioxide byproduct of this process.To differentiate this carbon dioxide from normal exhaled carbon dioxide, they use a labeled urea containing the carbon-13 (¹³C) isotope, which absorbs infrared light at a diffrent wavelength than carbon-12 (¹²C).

Flores Rangel elaborates, we can measure these differences in the absorption with the help of the MIR spectroscopy. They tell us how much carbon comes from the bacterially split urea and indicate whether there is an infection with Helicobacter pylori or not.

We can measure these differences in the absorption with the help of the MIR spectroscopy. They tell us how much carbon comes from the bacterially split urea and indicate whether there is an infection with Helicobacter pylori or not.

Dr. Gabriela Flores Rangel, University of Ulm

Currently, H. pylori tests are primarily conducted in clinical settings, involving invasive procedures like gastrointestinal endoscopy with tissue sample analysis. Non-invasive breath tests using mass spectrometry are available but are often complex and expensive. This new technology aims to bridge the gap, offering a more accessible solution.

Miniaturization Through Innovative Design

The sensor system incorporates a substrate-integrated cavity waveguide (IHWG) to enhance the interaction between the gas molecules and infrared radiation.This design reduces the reaction space, improving sensitivity. The reaction area consists of two airtight aluminum panels with an embedded channel that serves as both a gas cell and an IR light waveguide. Barium fluoride windows allow infrared light to reflect along the channel, enabling precise measurement of the absorption of light by both labeled and unlabeled carbon dioxide.

Mizaikoff highlights, We were able to reduce the gas cell from originally ten to three centimeters without measuring accuracy. The team is also exploring the use of lasers or LEDs as light sources to further miniaturize the sensor.

We were able to reduce the gas cell from originally ten to three centimeters without measuring accuracy.

Professor Boris Mizaikoff, University of Ulm

Future Implications and Accessibility

The researchers anticipate that the system can be further simplified and reduced in cost, potentially bringing the price of a smartphone-compatible mini-sensor down to around €20. This development offers hope for individuals at risk of H. pylori infection, promising a future where rapid and convenient mobile breath tests can aid in early diagnosis and treatment.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately half of the world’s population is infected with H.pylori. This affordable and accessible diagnostic tool could significantly impact global health by enabling widespread screening and early intervention.