116: Gout Sensor

Gout affects about 1 out of every 25 Americans, but patients cannot monitor their blood uric acid levels and anticipate flare-ups. Even for patients who closely manage their diet, flare-ups still occur and can be debilitating. We developed a continuous uric acid monitor to inform patients of their blood uric acid levels and help manage their gout symptoms before a flare-up occurs. Using microelectrodes and an enzymatic reaction, our device quantifies and monitors the concentration of uric acid in the blood. This product will significantly impact patients’ health worldwide, saving billions by preventing productivity loss and other health complications for those suffering from gout.