US scientist honored for work on tools to diagnose, monitor SCD
Sarah Du at Florida Atlantic named senior member of inventors academy
A scientist at Florida Atlantic University, Sarah E. Du, has been named a senior member of the U.S. National Academy of Inventors in recognition of her significant contributions to innovation and invention, including her work on diagnostic and monitoring tools for sickle cell disease (SCD).
The academy’s Senior Members Program recognizes scientists who have created technologies with the potential for significant social benefits. The nomination recognizes each recipients’ spirit of innovation, as well as their contributions to educating and mentoring students.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be selected as a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors. This recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of the collaborative efforts of my colleagues, students and mentors who have supported me along the way,” Du, PhD, an associate professor in the department of biomedical engineering, said in a university news story.
Inventions spotting restricted blood flow, blockages in blood vessels
“I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of technology and health care, and I remain committed to developing innovations that can positively impact lives,” Du added.
SCD is caused by mutations that result in the production of an abnormal version of hemoglobin, the protein red blood cells use to carry oxygen through the body, causing the cells to take on a sickle-like shape. These misshaped cells can obstruct blood vessels, restricting blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, potentially leading to complications like a vaso-occlusive crisis.
Du helped to develop a portable monitoring technology, called Vascular Occlusion Testing Device, to assess the risk of SCD complications by detecting blockages in blood vessels. The device is intended to help doctors monitor blood flow and identify problems, such as blood clots and blood vessel narrowing, potentially preventing complications.
She also helped to develop the Portable Electrical Impedance-Based Blood Testing Device for Sickle Cell Disease, which uses electrical signals to quickly test a blood sample when diagnosing or monitoring SCD. The device could be particularly useful for people living in remote or underserved areas, where access to more advanced medical equipment is limited.
Du also worked on a method to measure the health of red blood cells under different oxygen levels. The approach, called Automated Oxygen-Dependent Blood Function Measurement Systems and Methods, can be useful in diagnosing or monitoring conditions related to oxygen transport in the body, including SCD.
All these devices and approaches are under patent protection in the U.S.
Beyond her research, Du has served as a mentor to a new generation of scientists, offering technical assistance and career guidance. Three of her PhD students are named as co-inventors on the patented inventions.
“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Du’s appointment as a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors, which is a testament to her groundbreaking work in advancing medical technology and improving patient care and outcomes,” said Stella Batalama, PhD, dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science at Florida Atlantic.
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