Ingestible electrochemical sensors: Emerging tools for gastrointestinal disease detection and monitoring

Abstract

This review explores the emerging field of ingestible electrochemical sensors for gastrointestinal (GI) disease detection and monitoring. These miniature devices, designed to be swallowed and travel through the GI tract, offer a revolutionary approach to non-invasive, real-time monitoring of various physiological parameters and biomarkers within the GI environment. The fundamental principles of electrochemical sensing and the key components of ingestible sensors have been presented, including electrodes, power sources, and communication systems. The review examines different types of ingestible electrochemical sensors, such as pH sensors utilizing ion-selective electrodes and metal oxides, gas sensors for detecting hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide, and biomarker sensors for molecules like serotonin. Recent advancements in materials science, microelectronics, and wireless communication have enabled the development of these sophisticated devices. This review highlights the potential applications of ingestible electrochemical sensors in diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and assessing medication adherence. The review also addresses the challenges facing the field, including power management, sensor stability, and data transmission. Finally, this review discuss future directions, including the integration of multiple sensing modalities, the use of biocompatible materials, and the application of artificial intelligence for data analysis, emphasizing the transformative potential of these technologies in personalized GI healthcare.