New optical sensing platform for detecting cholesterol

A multidisciplinary team at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, has developed a novel optical sensing platform for cholesterol detection, combining silk fibre with phosphorene quantum dots.

Key Highlights:

• Innovative Sensor: Uses functionalized silk fibre integrated with phosphorene quantum dots, known for their high sensitivity and optical properties.
• Designed for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics, enabling personalized health monitoring and early disease detection.

Why Cholesterol Detection Matters:

• Cholesterol is a vital lipid synthesized by the liver — precursor for vitamin D, bile acids, and steroid hormones.
• Transports through the blood; essential for nerve cells and tissue health.

Types of Cholesterol:

• LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): “Bad” cholesterol — can cause arterial plaque buildup leading to atherosclerosis.
• HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): “Good” cholesterol — helps remove excess LDL from the bloodstream.

Health Implications of Imbalance:

• Elevated or low cholesterol levels are linked to:
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Myocardial infarction
  • Hypertension
  • Venous thrombosis
  • Cancer

(Source: PIB)