A sweet sensor

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed DNA sensors that can be used with commercially available personal glucose meters to detect and quantify compounds other than glucose.¹ The researchers are now working to simplify the approach and think the sensors could have use in diagnosing diseases or identifying environmental contaminants.

"Despite tremendous efforts in developing quantitative devices for sensing applications, few sensors are being used widely by the public, with the notable exception of personal glucose meters," said Yi Lu, professor of chemistry at UIUC...