Smart Floss That Monitors Stress Levels Developed by Researchers

Research from Tufts University in the U.S. has introduced a unique approach to flossing. This innovative “smart floss” not only promotes oral health but also tracks stress levels. The technology employs a narrow channel that collects saliva, which is then analyzed by sensors integrated into the floss. The outcomes are relayed to an accompanying phone application.

Electrical and computer engineer Sameer Sonkusale explains that they aimed to create a measurement method that wouldn’t add to anyone’s stress. “Flossing seemed like a natural choice,” he notes, as it allows for daily samples of cortisol, a stress indicator found in saliva.

Traditional methods for gauging stress have their challenges; self-reporting can lead to biased results, and standard cortisol measurements often require blood samples. This new flossing method could significantly streamline the process, making it faster and more convenient to incorporate into everyday life. However, as promising as it seems, the prototype has only been tested in laboratory settings so far.

A key feature of this innovation is a substance called eMIP (electropolymerized molecularly imprinted polymer), designed to identify cortisol. It essentially functions like a tiny, tailored mold for cortisol molecules, which accelerates the development of an accurate biosensor.

Sonkusale shares that this new method reduces the reliance on expensive antibodies or receptors. “If you find a new stress marker, you can create a polymer cast rapidly,” he adds. This adaptability means the system might also eventually measure other biological markers, such as hormone levels related to fertility or glucose levels for diabetes management.

Chronic stress, a common issue in our lives, poses significant health risks, including heart disease and hypertension. It can also contribute to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Nonetheless, the researchers acknowledge some limitations. They suggest that the smart floss is more beneficial for monitoring existing health conditions rather than for initial diagnoses, particularly since saliva biomarker levels can vary among individuals.

Sonkusale further explains, “Blood tests remain the gold standard for diagnostics. However, once a condition is diagnosed, this device offers a simple way to monitor ongoing health and check whether treatment is effective.” The findings from this research have been published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.