NIT Calicut scientists develop low-cost nano-sensor to detect sepsis marker
On 23 July 2025, the Science Ministry reported that NIT Calicut scientists developed low-cost nano-sensors and a portable device to rapidly detect endotoxins, a key biomarker of sepsis.
Summary
Scientists at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut, Kerala, developed eight sensor architectures and a low-cost portable device to detect endotoxins quickly and accurately, the Ministry of Science and Technology reported on 23 July 2025. Endotoxin, a toxic component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, is a key biomarker of infections that can lead to sepsis. Seven of the sensors, developed by Prof. N. Sandhyarani and her team, use electrochemical detection and one uses optical detection, with nanomaterials such as gold clusters, MoS2, reduced graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes improving sensitivity.
Key facts
- Date
- 23 July 2025
- Institute
- NIT Calicut, Kerala
- Target biomarker
- Endotoxin (Gram-negative bacteria)
- Condition
- Sepsis
- Sensors
- 8 architectures: 7 electrochemical, 1 optical
- Lead
- Prof. N. Sandhyarani
Practice MCQs 1 questions
The low-cost nano-sensor developed at NIT Calicut (reported July 2025) detects endotoxins to help in early diagnosis of:
Show answer
Correct answer: C — Sepsis
PIB (23 July 2025): the electrochemical biosensor device could help early diagnosis of sepsis; endotoxin from Gram-negative bacteria is the key biomarker.