The probe can track three key biomarkers simultaneously, enabling faster, minimally invasive patient monitoring. All that in a tiny package—the probe is the smallest of its kind with a diameter of only 1.1 millimeters.

“Real-time monitoring of biomarkers like glucose, lactate and ethanol is essential for understanding metabolic health and guiding treatment decisions in critical care settings,” said Tanya Hutter, professor in the Cockrell School of Engineering’s Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering and lead author on new research published in Nature Communications.

“Our compact fiber probe offers a unique solution to measure these compounds simultaneously, providing a more complete picture of the metabolic state.”