WEARABLE HYDROGEL SENSOR – Dr. Amil Aligayev

Project title:

Wearable Dual-Mode SERS–Colorimetric Hydrogel Sensor with AI-Driven Analysis for Early Lung Cancer Detection

 

Abstract:

The project develops a wearable, non-invasive sensor for detecting lung cancer biomarkers in exhaled breath. Its hydrogel patch uses metal-organic frameworks(MOFs), including ZIF-8 and functionalized MOFs, to selectively capture and concentrate volatile organic compounds such as hexanal. Their high porosity and adjustable chemical properties enhance the sensor’s sensitivity and selectivity.The captured biomarkers are analysed using two complementary methods: SERS for sensitive molecular detection and a colorimetric reaction that produces a 
visible colour change. This dual-mode approach improves reliability through cross-validation. 
A convolutional neural network processes SERS spectra and colorimetric images, identifies biomarker patterns, and provides rapid diagnostic classification through a smartphone or computer. The final system will combine a wearable mask or patch, MOF-based sensing materials, and AI software to support fast, affordable, and accessible early lung cancer screening.

Funding body: Science4Business – Inkubator Rozwoju S4B

Duration: 18 months

Budget: 100,000 PLN



This project has received funding from the European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation
programme under grant agreement No 857470 and from European Regional Development Fund
via Foundation for Polish Science International Research Agenda PLUS programme grant
No MAB PLUS/2018/8.
Poland
The project is co-financed from the state budget within the framework of the undertaking of the Minister of Science and Higher Education "Support for the activities of Centers of Excellence established under Horizon 2020".

Grant: 5 143 237,70 EUR
Total value: 29 971 365,00 EUR
Date of signing the funding agreement: December 2023

The purpose of the undertaking is to support entities of the higher education and science system that have received funding from the European Union budget in the competition H2020-WIDESPREAD-2018-2020/WIDESPREAD-01-2018-2019: Teaming Phase 2. in the preparation, implementation and updating of activities, maintenance of material resources necessary for carrying out activities, acquisition and modernization of scientific and research apparatus, maintenance and development of personnel potential necessary for the implementation of activities, and dissemination of the results of scientific activities.