Key points from article :
Researchers developed a microscopic implantable chip for physiological monitoring.
It has a total volume of less than 0.1 mm3, and can only be viewed using a microscope.
The goal was to inject the devices using a hypodermic needle, and beam their readings wirelessly to monitors and smartphones.
Device uses ultrasound as a power source and to communicate with an external device.
“We introduced new materials onto standard complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor to provide new function,” - Ken Shepard, co-researcher.
“We added piezoelectric materials directly onto the integrated circuit to transducer acoustic energy to electrical energy.”
The current device measures body temperature, but the technology has the potential to monitor a variety of biological parameters.
Implants monitor body temperature in mice and hope to develop the technology to the point where it could be used in humans.
Study by Columbia University published in Science Advances.
