ALIGARH, August 2: A team of researchers from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), led by Dr Mohammad Zain Khan, Department of Industrial Chemistry, and Prof. Suhail Sabir, Department of Chemistry, has been granted an Indian patent for developing a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor that detects acetone in human breath, enabling early diagnosis of diabetes.
The innovative sensor is easy to fabricate, simple to use, and capable of detecting acetone at micromolar concentrations, making it a promising non-invasive diagnostic tool. Acetone, a volatile organic compound present in the breath, is a known biomarker for diabetes.
Along with Dr Khan and Prof. Sabir, the research team includes Dr Adil ShafiGanie and Dr Saima Sultana. The team’s breakthrough paves the way for affordable, point-of-care diagnostic devices that can facilitate early intervention in diabetes management.
Dr Khan, whose research focuses on electrochemical sensors and point-of-care technologies, has authored over 100 research papers, completed research projects worth over ₹1.2 crore, and earned numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Researcher Award from AMU, the Best Oral Presenter Award, and the Molecule Award. His work has been cited over 5,700 times, and he holds an h-index of 40 and an i10-index of 80.
“This innovation carries significant potential not only in healthcare but also in environmental and social applications,” said Dr Khan, adding that “Early detection of diabetes allows patients to adopt timely lifestyle changes, improving disease management and outcomes.”
Previously, Dr Khan was granted a patent for real-time sensors for monitoring chemical oxygen demand (COD), further affirming his contributions to sustainable technology and public health.