Breath Analysis

Scientists and engineers in the Clinical Technologies group are engaged in R&D efforts to develop novel breath test technologies and ultra-sensitive tunable laser-based sensors that measure trace compounds in human breath (breath biomarkers) and can be used to assess an individual’s health and/or metabolic status. The compounds that are measured are either endogenous (naturally occurring) species or exogenous species produced after a selected reagent is ingested and metabolized. PSI engineers have developed ultra-sensitive tunable diode laser systems for measuring trace nitric oxide and ethane in exhaled breath. We are also developing an exogenous breath test that measures activity of a key liver enzyme involved in drug metabolism.