Breakthrough microfluidic technology strengthens BRICS momentum in biomedical innovation
Scientists in St. Petersburg have developed a high-precision microchannel sensor capable of detecting reactive oxygen species (ROS) – key biomarkers associated with ageing and the development of cardiovascular and neurological diseases – with up to two times greater accuracy than conventional analytical methods.
The research introduces a microfluidic device designed to significantly improve the speed, sensitivity and reliability of oxidative stress assessment, as reported by the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Reactive oxygen species accumulate in the human body due to factors such as smoking, air pollution, alcohol consumption and chronic disease. In excessive concentrations, they damage proteins and DNA, triggering oxidative stress – a process linked to accelerated ageing and an increased risk of cancer, as well as age-related disorders affecting the brain, heart and blood vessels. Early and precise measurement of ROS levels is therefore critical for preventive medicine and timely intervention.
Conventional detection methods rely on the chemiluminescent reaction between ROS and luminol. However, the emitted signal is typically weak, requiring substantial volumes of reagents and, in some cases, scarce biological samples. Manual reagent dosing and slow internal mixing also prolong analysis time and reduce precision.
To overcome these limitations, researchers engineered a compact microfluidic chip featuring specially structured microchannels that rapidly fragment and mix liquids.
Using advanced numerical modelling to optimise channel geometry, the team ensured accelerated mixing and real-time luminescence detection within fractions of a second, using a sample volume smaller than a drop of water.
Experimental results demonstrated that the new system measures ROS concentrations 1.5–2 times more accurately than classical approaches, where prolonged reaction times and uneven mixing introduce measurement errors. In addition to improved precision, the device enables continuous monitoring of reaction dynamics – opening new opportunities for both fundamental chemical research and pharmaceutical applications.
The development reflects a broader trend across BRICS countries to strengthen domestic biomedical research and healthcare technologies.
A comparable breakthrough has recently emerged in China, where researchers led by Beihang University have developed an ultra-flexible bioelectronic patch capable of delivering drugs and gene therapies directly to the surface of complex organs.
According to China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS, the device conforms to irregular anatomical structures such as ovaries and kidneys, enabling highly localised treatment while minimising systemic side effects.
Iran, in turn, has recently joined the group of countries possessing globally approved advanced cell-based therapies, with six domestically developed stem cell and tissue engineering products now included among more than 110 authorised cellular, gene therapy and tissue engineering products worldwide. Regionally, Iran ranks third in stem cell technology, as reported by Nour News, a partner of TV BRICS. Additional products are currently awaiting authorisation, with expectations that more will join the global list in the coming year.
TvIn Brazil, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva recently underscored the importance of healthcare sovereignty, stating that the country has the capacity to produce 100 per cent of its own medicines, reports Brasil 247, a partner of TV BRICS. He emphasised Brazil’s ambition to strengthen its national health industry and expand domestic manufacturing under the Nova Indústria Brasil programme, which allocates significant investment to the health sector. The initiative aims to increase self-sufficiency in medicines, vaccines and medical technologies, reinforcing resilience within Brazil’s public health system.
African Times published this article in partnership with International Media Network TV BRICS
