SBIR 95-1 SOLICITATION
PROJECT SUMMARY
Proposal Number:
Project Title:
MEMBRANE PROBES & SENSORS FOR MONITORING BONE MINERALS
Technical Abstract:
Membrane probes based on microdialysis and ultrafiltration will be developed to obtain samples from
subcutaneous, muscle and bone marrow interstitial fluid to measure bone minerals: calcium, magnesium
and inorganic phosphorus. A system will be developed for combining ion sensitive electrodes for calcium
and magnesium with probes for monitoring ions on-line in real time. Ground based and in-flight
specimen collection and analysis for studies of bone loss mechanisms and counter measures will be
facilitated by this system. The probes will be tested in vivo by implantation into subcutaneous tissue,
muscle and bone marrow of sheep. To demonstrate the feasibility of using these probes in studying
mineral metabolism, calcium concentrations will be manipulated and tracked with the probes. It is
anticipated that mineral concentrations in subcutaneous tissue will parallel blood free ion concentrations,
providing a method of monitoring without obtaining blood. The distribution of the minerals may show a
different distribution in other tissue tested. This project will provide NASA with a method to obtain
samples for studying mechanisms of and counter measures against bone decalcification and other mineral
metabolism abnormalities resulting from microgravity in both ground based and space environments
using a variety of subjects including small rodents.
Potential Commercial Applications:
The membrane probes and on-line monitoring system for minerals will be useful as research tools in
many areas in addition to space physiology research. These probes and sensors will also be marketed for
research in such areas as mechanisms and prevention of osteoporosis, and magnesium metabolism in the
elderly. These devices make it possible to use small animal models for these studies and to gain
information more rapidly and inexpensively than by current techniques. These devices also have a
potential market in research and monitoring in livestock health and production.
Name and Address of Offeror:
Bioanalytical Systems, Inc.
2701 Kent Avenue
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) &
Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) Programs
Electronic Management System (EMS)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
The SBIR/STTR EMS site is maintained by Steve
Hu, Hughes STX.
For comments and questions, contact
webmaster@sbir.hq.nasa.gov.
Updated: Feb. 7, 1996