A novel, multiparametric, flexible microsensor for metabolic monitoring in vivo

We present a new, multiparametric microsensor for metabolic monitoring in vivo. In contrast to silicon or ceramic based systems, the flexible, implantable, polymer sensor strip is manufactured in a cost-effective hybrid of thin-film and laminate technology in a wafer-level process. Flexibility allows easy handling and placement in soft tissue. It comprises electrochemical, amperometric micro-(bio)sensors for the energy metabolism parameters lactate and oxygen, the neurotransmitter glutamate as well as an integrated reference electrode. This allows dynamic, highly sensitive, localized, long-term online measurement of multiple metabolic parameters with a single device. The reliable analytical performance of the sensors has been proven. The sensor can be inserted directly into the tissue in clinical applications.