Researchers at University of Hyderabad develop novel glucose sensing method

Hyderabad: Researchers at the University of Hyderabad have developed a Raman spectroscopy-based method for glucose sensing that works across clinically relevant ranges, opening up possibilities for portable, non-invasive monitoring devices. However, the work is still at an early research stage and not yet ready for clinical use.The study, titled "Linker-mode surface-enhanced Raman sensing of glucose via aromatic ring stretching in 3-Thienylboronic acid-Ag nanoclusters," was conducted by scientists from the School of Physics and the School of Engineering Sciences and Technology at the university's Gachibowli campus.New approach The team designed a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) platform using silver nanoclusters functionalised with 3-thienylboronic acid. Unlike conventional methods that depend on the weak Raman signals of glucose itself, this approach uses a "linker" molecule.Here, changes in the aromatic ring stretching of the linker act as a measurable signal. The researchers identified a distinct Raman band that showed a linear response to varying glucose concentrations within the physiological range. This single-band, linker-based method simplifies detection while improving reliability and clarity of the sensing mechanism.To confirm their findings, the researchers used density functional theory calculations. These helped explain how the Raman signal is enhanced when silver binds with the linker and interacts with glucose, establishing the scientific basis of the sensing process.The study lays the groundwork for developing portable, non-invasive glucose monitoring devices, a significant need given the rising burden of diabetes. While promising, the researchers emphasise that the technology is still in the experimental stage and requires further development before real-world application.