SupraSense: SupraSensors for medical diagnostics

In the SupraSense project, the Emmy Noether Junior Research Group, led by Dr. Frank Biedermann at KIT is developing novel sensor technologies, known as “SupraSensors,” for applications in medical diagnostics. These biomimetic sensors are based on hybrid-zeolitic materials whose binding pockets are specifically modulated with cofactors in order to create receptors that act like enzyme active sites. The goal is to examine liquid samples such as urine, saliva or blood directly for molecular markers, for example metabolites such as neurotransmitters or amino acids that reflect the circadian rhythm and can serve as early indicators for cardiovascular diseases, inflammation or sepsis. The combination of molecular recognition through novel material chemistry and DeepLearning-based analysis is expected to provide high sensitivity and selectivity – while also allowing simple manufacturing. Funded by the European Research Council, the project has been receiving approximately two million euros over five years as an ERC Consolidator Grant since 2022.