In-ear integrated sensor array for the continuous monitoring of brain activity and of lactate in sweat, 2023, Yuchen Xu et al

Abstract
Owing to the proximity of the ear canal to the central nervous system, in-ear electrophysiological systems can be used to unobtrusively monitor brain states. Here, by taking advantage of the ear’s exocrine sweat glands, we describe an in-ear integrated array of electrochemical and electrophysiological sensors placed on a flexible substrate surrounding a user-generic earphone for the simultaneous monitoring of lactate concentration and brain states via electroencephalography, electrooculography and electrodermal activity.

In volunteers performing an acute bout of exercise, the device detected elevated lactate levels in sweat concurrently with the modulation of brain activity across all electroencephalography frequency bands. Simultaneous and continuous unobtrusive in-ear monitoring of metabolic biomarkers and brain electrophysiology may allow for the discovery of dynamic and synergetic interactions between brain and body biomarkers in real-world settings for long-term health monitoring or for the detection or monitoring of neurodegenerative diseases.

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41551-023-01095-1

 

Earbud biosensors provide continuous monitoring of brain activity and lactate levels

“Being able to measure the dynamics of both brain cognitive activity and body metabolic state in one in-ear integrated device that doesn’t intrude on the comfort and mobility of the user opens up tremendous opportunities for advancing health and wellness of people of all ages, anytime and anywhere,” co-principal investigator Gert Cauwenberghs comments in a press statement.

https://physicsworld.com/a/earbud-b...itoring-of-brain-activity-and-lactate-levels/