IIT-Madras Develops Rapid Test To Detect Pre-Eclampsia Early In Pregnancy

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) have developed a portable blood test that can detect pre-eclampsia in just 30 minutes. Pre-eclampsia is an often life-threatening condition marked by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, particularly after 20 weeks of pregnancy. This innovation could prove critical in improving maternal healthcare in India, where pre-eclampsia continues to contribute significantly to pregnancy-related complications and deaths.

According to Mayo Clinic, pre-eclampsia is a serious condition that, if undetected or untreated, can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the unborn baby, including premature birth, seizures, and even death. Early diagnosis is vital, and that's where the new IIT-Madras test could make a crucial difference.

The Technology: Fast, Portable, and User-Friendly

Developed by a team led by Professor V V Raghavendra Sai and Dr. Ratan Kumar Chaudhary, this point-of-care (PoC) device is both compact and affordable. It works by detecting a key biomarker, Placental Growth Factor (PlGF), using advanced polymeric optical fibre biosensing technology.

The entire process requires just a drop of blood and delivers results within half an hour. Unlike traditional tests that often need sophisticated lab setups and several hours or even days, this device is designed for use in smaller clinics and rural healthcare centres, where access to diagnostic labs is limited.

Collaborative Research and Global Potential

The innovation is a result of collaboration between IIT Madras, Vellore Institute of Technology, and Sri Narayani Hospital & Research Centre. The findings have been published in the reputed journal Biosensors and Bioelectronics, under the title "Polymeric optical fiber biosensor with PAMAM dendrimer-based surface modification and PlGF detection for pre-eclampsia diagnosis."

The device has already undergone extensive analytical, bioanalytical, and clinical testing and is currently advancing through the required Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) for commercial rollout.

Addressing India's Maternal Health Crisis

According to the World Health Organisation, India accounts for a high percentage of global maternal deaths. Pre-eclampsia is a key contributor, with a prevalence ranging from 2 to 15%. Many of these deaths are preventable with timely diagnosis and intervention.

By making such technology accessible in under-resourced settings, the IIT-Madras biosensor could play a vital role in preventing maternal deaths and improving pregnancy outcomes, not just in India but globally.