Detection of biomarkers in biological samples

Abstract

The present invention provides an apparatus and method for detecting biomarkers in biological samples, such as excrement. [Solution] The apparatus and method are provided for use with a biological sample from a subject. The substrate comprises a plurality of biosynthetic molecules arranged on the substrate and configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample. A transducer is configured to generate electrical energy in response to the occurrence of biochemical interactions, and a wireless transmitter is configured to transmit a signal indicating the generated electrical energy. Other applications are also described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference to Related Applications) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 723,189, "Detection of Biomarkers in Bodily Emissions," filed November 21, 2024, by Kapp - Barnea et al., which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Some applications generally relate to the analysis of biological samples, such as excreta. Specifically, some applications relate to devices and methods for detecting biomarkers in biological samples, such as excreta.

Background Art

[0003] There are substances that indicate specific conditions that can be found in human excreta. Some of these conditions are applicable to both male and female subjects. For example, a subject's urine or feces can contain one or more physical properties, chemical compounds, and / or microscopic components that indicate underlying diseases.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In some embodiments, the substrate comprises one or more biosynthetic molecules configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker. In some applications, the substrate further comprises a transducer configured to convert a form of energy generated by the biochemical interactions into electrical energy. In some embodiments, the substrate further comprises an analog-to-digital converter for converting the signal generated by the transducer into a digital signal. In some applications, the electrical components within the substrate are powered by a power source (e.g., a battery, miniature battery, capacitor, chemical energy storage device, nanogenerator (e.g., piezoelectric nanogenerator, charged nanogenerator)), which in some examples are biodegradable and / or disposable. In some applications, the battery powers a biodegradable and / or disposable miniature battery-powered wireless transmitter, which is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal, such as a UHF radio signal, indicating whether the biosynthetic molecules have undergone biochemical interactions within the biomarker and / or indicating the concentration of the biomarker (e.g., based on the strength of the generated current and / or voltage). In some applications, the transmitter transmits the signal using a short-range wireless technology standard such as Bluetooth®. In some applications, the transmitter transmits signals using Zigbee® and / or the Short-Range Wireless Communication Protocol.

[0005] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule includes aptamers, molecularly imprinted polymers, antibodies, phages, and / or one or more different types of biosynthetic molecules. In some examples, biochemical interactions result in changes in electrochemical potential, spatial conformational changes (i.e., dynamical changes), and / or thermal changes (e.g., via exothermic or endothermic reactions). These changes in electrochemical potential, spatial conformational changes, and / or thermal changes are converted into electronic signals. In some applications, the transducer is a pyroelectric transducer configured to convert thermal changes resulting from biochemical interactions (e.g., heat generated or absorbed) into electrical energy. Alternatively or additionally, the transducer is a piezoelectric transducer configured to convert mechanical energy generated by biochemical interactions (e.g., spatial conformational changes) into electrical energy. In some applications, the transducer is a structural field-effect transistor and / or potentiostat configured to convert electrochemical potential changes resulting from biochemical interactions into electrical energy.

[0006] In some applications, the substrate (including all components on the substrate, e.g., electronic components) is completely biodegradable and / or disposable. In some applications, the electronic components on the substrate (e.g., converters, analog-to-digital converters, power supplies, and / or transmitters) include biodegradable and / or disposable biomaterials and / or organic materials.

[0007] Therefore, according to some embodiments, the apparatus is used for biological samples, and the apparatus is It is a substrate, It is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in a biological sample, and multiple biosynthetic molecules are arranged on a substrate, A transducer configured to generate electrical energy in response to biochemical interactions, An apparatus is provided comprising a substrate, which includes a wireless transmitter configured to transmit a signal indicating generated electrical energy.

[0008] In some embodiments, the substrate includes toilet paper configured to receive the subject's feces and / or urine within a reactive vicinity of biosynthetic molecules in response to the subject's interaction with the toilet paper.

[0009] In some embodiments, the substrate is configured to receive one or more of the following in a reactive vicinity of biosynthetic molecules in response to a subject interacting with the substrate: saliva, nasal secretions, mucus, sputum, sweat, and / or tears.

[0010] In some embodiments, the substrate comprises a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and flushable pads, and the substrate is configured to receive the subject's vaginal secretions within a reactive vicinity of biosynthetic molecules in response to the subject's interaction with the substrate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the substrate is configured to accept a biological sample selected from the group consisting of volatile organic compounds, epidermal tissue fluid, mucosal tissue fluid, and extracellular matrix (ECM) present in the subject's body, within a reactive vicinity of biosynthetic molecules in response to the subject's interaction with the substrate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the wireless transmitter has a thickness of less than 500 microns.

[0013] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule comprises one or more biosynthetic molecules selected from the group including aptamers, molecularly imprinted polymers, antibodies, and phages.

[0014] In some embodiments, the substrate further comprises an analog-to-digital converter configured to convert electrical energy generated by the converter into a digital signal.

[0015] In some embodiments, the substrate further includes a power supply.

[0016] In some embodiments, the power supply includes a battery with a thickness of less than 500 microns.

[0017] In some embodiments, the device is used with a toilet, and the base is configured to rest on the toilet.

[0018] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a sensor module that is placed inside the toilet bowl and configured to detect signals.

[0019] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the water of a toilet bowl in the presence of a given biomarker in a biological sample.

[0020] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions that result in thermal changes in the presence of a given biomarker.

[0021] In some embodiments, the converter includes a pyroelectric converter configured to convert thermal changes resulting from biochemical interactions into electrical energy.

[0022] In some embodiments, biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions that result in spatial conformational changes in the presence of a given biomarker.

[0023] In some embodiments, the transducer includes a piezoelectric transducer configured to convert spatial structural changes resulting from biochemical interactions into electrical energy.

[0024] In some embodiments, biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions that result in a change in electrochemical potential in the presence of a given biomarker.

[0025] In some embodiments, the converter includes a structured field-effect transistor configured to convert changes in the electrochemical potential resulting from biochemical interactions into electrical energy.

[0026] In some embodiments, the transducer includes a potentiostat configured to convert an electrochemical potential change resulting from a biochemical interaction into electrical energy.

[0027] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction in the presence of iodine in a biological sample.

[0028] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction in the presence of a given pathogen in a biological sample.

[0029] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more inflammatory biomarkers in a biological sample.

[0030] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction in the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

[0031] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction in the presence of a biomarker in a biological sample indicative of whether a female subject is pre-menopausal or post-menopausal, the biomarker being selected from the group consisting of 6-sulphatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

[0032] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction in the presence of a biomarker in a biological sample indicative of the menstrual cycle of a female subject, the biomarker being selected from the group comprising pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

[0033] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction in the presence of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in a biological sample.

[0034] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers in a biological sample indicating that a male subject may have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the one or more biomarkers being selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

[0035] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more biomarkers in a biological sample indicating that the subject may have cancer, an autoimmune disease, and / or inflammation, the one or more biomarkers being selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

[0036] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers in a biological sample indicating that the subject may have a sexually transmitted infection, and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

[0037] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of type B natriuretic peptides in the urine of the subject.

[0038] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of troponin in the subject's urine.

[0039] According to some embodiments, A biological sample from a subject is placed in a proximity to multiple biosynthetic molecules arranged on a substrate, so that the biosynthetic molecules undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample. When a biomarker is present in a biological sample, it generates electrical energy through biochemical interactions with biosynthetic molecules, A method is further provided which includes causing a transmitter placed on a substrate to generate a signal indicating the generated electrical energy.

[0040] In some embodiments, the substrate includes toilet paper, and placing a biological sample from a subject in a vicinity where it can react with biosynthetic molecules includes bringing the subject's feces and / or urine into a vicinity where it can react with biosynthetic molecules through the subject's interaction with the toilet paper.

[0041] In some embodiments, placing a biological sample from a subject in a vicinity where it can react with biosynthetic molecules includes bringing the subject's saliva, sweat, nasal secretions, mucus, sputum, and / or tears into a vicinity where they can react with biosynthetic molecules through the subject's interaction with a substrate.

[0042] In some embodiments, the substrate comprises a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and flushable pads, and placing a biological sample from a subject in a vicinity where it can react with biosynthetic molecules includes bringing the subject's vaginal secretions into a vicinity where they can react with biosynthetic molecules by the subject interacting with the substrate.

[0043] In some embodiments, placing a biological sample from a subject in a vicinity where it can react with biosynthetic molecules includes bringing a biological sample, selected from the group consisting of volatile organic compounds, epidermal tissue fluid, mucosal tissue fluid, and extracellular matrix (ECM) present in the subject's body, into a vicinity where it can react with biosynthetic molecules through interaction with a substrate by the subject.

[0044] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule comprises one or more biosynthetic molecules selected from the group including aptamers, molecularly imprinted polymers, antibodies, and phages.

[0045] In some embodiments, when a biomarker is present in a biological sample, allowing it to undergo biochemical interaction with a biosynthetic molecule includes placing the substrate in a toilet bowl.

[0046] In some embodiments, when a biomarker is present in a biological sample, allowing it to undergo biochemical interaction with a biosynthetic molecule includes allowing the biosynthetic molecule to undergo a biochemical interaction that results in a thermal change in the presence of a given biomarker.

[0047] In some embodiments, when a biomarker is present in a biological sample, generating electrical energy through biochemical interactions with biosynthetic molecules involves converting the thermal changes resulting from the biochemical interactions into electrical energy using a pyroelectric converter.

[0048] In some embodiments, when a biomarker is present in a biological sample, allowing it to undergo biochemical interactions with a biosynthetic molecule includes allowing the biosynthetic molecule to undergo biochemical interactions that result in a spatial conformational change in the presence of a given biomarker.

[0049] In some embodiments, generating electrical energy through biochemical interactions with biosynthetic molecules when a biomarker is present in a biological sample involves converting the spatial conformational changes resulting from the biochemical interactions into electrical energy using a piezoelectric transducer.

[0050] In some embodiments, when a biomarker is present in a biological sample, causing it to undergo biochemical interaction with a biosynthetic molecule includes causing the biosynthetic molecule to undergo an electrochemical potential change in the presence of a given biomarker.

[0051] In some embodiments, when a biomarker is present in a biological sample, generating electrical energy through biochemical interactions with biosynthetic molecules involves converting the resulting electrochemical potential change into electrical energy using a structural field-effect transistor.

[0052] In some embodiments, when a biomarker is present in a biological sample, generating electrical energy through biochemical interactions with biosynthetic molecules involves converting the resulting electrochemical potential change into electrical energy using a potentiostat.

[0053] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given pathogen in a biological sample.

[0054] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more inflammatory biomarkers in a biological sample.

[0055] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of human chorionic gonadotropins (hCG).

[0056] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a biomarker in a biological sample indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal, the biomarker being selected from the group consisting of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

[0057] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a biomarker in a biological sample representing the menstrual cycle of a female subject, the biomarker being selected from the group including pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

[0058] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in a biological sample.

[0059] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is The system is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more biomarkers in a biological sample indicating that a male subject may have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the one or more biomarkers being selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

[0060] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more biomarkers in a biological sample indicating that the subject may have cancer, and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

[0061] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers in a biological sample indicating that the subject may have a sexually transmitted infection, and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

[0062] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of type B natriuretic peptides in the urine of the subject.

[0063] In some embodiments, the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of troponin in the subject's urine.

[0064] According to some embodiments, the apparatus is used together with a biological sample from a subject and a toilet, A substrate placed on a toilet bowl and configured to come into contact with a biological sample, the substrate configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal indicating the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample, A sensor configured to detect signals generated by a substrate, Further provided is an apparatus comprising a computer processor configured to generate an output in response to a detected signal.

[0065] In some embodiments, the substrate is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal indicating the presence of type B natriuretic peptide in the subject's urine, and a computer processor is configured to respond by generating an output indicating that the subject may be suffering from congestive heart failure.

[0066] In some embodiments, the substrate is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal indicating the presence of troponin in the subject's urine, and a computer processor is configured to respond by generating an output indicating that the subject may be suffering from myocardial ischemia.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the device is used in conjunction with a biological sample from a subject, Multiple biosynthetic molecules configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in a biological sample, A transducer configured to generate electrical energy in response to biochemical interactions, The apparatus is further provided, comprising a wireless transmitter configured to transmit a signal indicating generated electrical energy.

[0068] According to some embodiments, A biological sample from a subject is placed in a location where it can react with multiple biosynthetic molecules, and the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample. When a biomarker is present in a biological sample, it generates electrical energy through biochemical interactions with biosynthetic molecules, A method is further provided which includes causing a transmitter to generate a signal indicating the generated electrical energy.

[0069] This disclosure will be better understood from the detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the following drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0070] [Figure 1A]This is a schematic diagram of a substrate configured to generate an electronic signal indicating the presence of a biomarker in some applications of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] This is a schematic diagram of a base inside a toilet bowl in some applications of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This flowchart shows the steps of analysis performed on a subject's biological sample in some applications of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0071] Referring to Figure 1A, Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of a substrate 26 configured to generate an electronic signal indicating the presence of a biomarker in some applications of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 1B, Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of a device 20 used with the substrate 26.

[0072] In some applications, the substrate 26 can be flushed down the toilet 23 (shown in Figure 1B). For example, the substrate may include toilet paper 40 (shown in Figure 1A), wipes (such as facial cleansing sheets), tampons, flushable pads, sanitary products, and / or different types of substrates. In some applications, the sensor module 22 is placed inside the toilet 23 and configured to detect signals generated by the substrate. Alternatively or additionally, the signals generated by the substrate may be transmitted directly to a user interface device 32, which may include, but is not limited to, a telephone 34, a tablet computer 36, a laptop computer 38, or different types of personal computing devices.

[0073] Figure 1A shows a single sheet of toilet paper 40 in a roll of toilet paper, with perforations 42 at both ends. In some embodiments, the substrate includes one or more biosynthetic molecules 44 configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker. In some applications, the substrate further includes a transducer 46 configured to convert some form of energy generated by the biochemical interactions into electrical energy. In some embodiments, the substrate further includes an analog-to-digital transducer 48 for converting the signal generated by the transducer 46 into a digital signal. In some applications, the electrical components within the substrate are powered by a small battery power source 50 (e.g., a battery, a miniature battery, a capacitor, a chemical energy storage device, a nanogenerator (e.g., a piezoelectric nanogenerator, a charged nanogenerator)), which in some examples are biodegradable and / or disposable. In some applications, the power supply drives a small, biodegradable (e.g., biodegradable) and / or disposable battery-powered wireless transmitter 52, which is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal, such as a UHF radio signal, indicating whether a biosynthetic molecule has undergone biochemical interaction within a biomarker and / or the concentration of the biomarker (e.g., based on the strength of the generated current and / or voltage). In some applications, the transmitter transmits the signal using a short-range wireless technology standard such as Bluetooth®. In some applications, the transmitter transmits the signal using Zigbee® and / or a short-range wireless communication protocol.

[0074] In some applications, the substrate 26 (including all components on the substrate, e.g., electronic components) is completely biodegradable and / or disposable. In some applications, the electronic components on the substrate (e.g., the transducer 46, the analog-to-digital converter 48, the power supply 50, and / or the transmitter 52) include biodegradable and / or disposable biomaterials and / or organic materials.

[0075] As described above, in some applications, the sensor module 22 located inside the toilet bowl 23 is configured to detect signals generated by the substrate. Alternatively or additionally, the signals generated by the substrate may be transmitted directly to a sensor in a user interface device 32, which may include, but is not limited to, a telephone 34, a tablet computer 36, a laptop computer 38, or a different type of personal computing device.

[0076] In some applications, the sensor module 22 and / or user interface device 32 communicate with, for example, a remote server, thereby communicating with a third-party device. For example, the device may communicate with a physician or insurance company via a communication network without intervention from the subject. The physician or insurance company can evaluate the results on the third-party device and determine whether further examination or intervention is appropriate for the subject.

[0077] In some applications, data relating to the received signals is stored in memory. In some applications, the sensor module comprises a computer processor 28 and associated memory located within the housing 30. In some applications, the associated memory within the computer processor 28 stores data relating to the received signals. The subject periodically submits the stored data to a remote device at a facility such as a medical facility (e.g., a clinic or pharmacy) or an insurance company, and the computer processor of the remote device at the facility may then perform the above analysis on batches of data acquired over a certain period.

[0078] In some applications, biosynthetic molecules 44 include aptamers, molecularly imprinted polymers, antibodies, phages, and / or one or more different types of biosynthetic molecules. In some examples, biochemical interactions result in changes in electrochemical potential, spatial conformational changes (i.e., kinetic changes), and / or thermal changes (e.g., via exothermic or endothermic reactions). These changes in electrochemical potential, spatial conformational changes, and / or thermal changes are converted into electronic signals.

[0079] In some applications, the converter 46 is a pyroelectric converter configured to convert thermal changes due to biochemical interactions (e.g., heat generated or absorbed) into electrical energy. For example, the pyroelectric converter may include one or more of the following: polyvinylidene fluoride, structures containing repeated oxygen octahedra surrounding a different type of ion (i.e., structures having the general formula ABO3, such as perovskite (specifically CaTiO3, BaTiO3, PbZrO3, PbTiO3, niobate, and tantalate)), cobalt phthalocyanine, lithium tantalate, and / or tourmaline.

[0080] Alternatively or additionally, the transducer 46 is a piezoelectric transducer configured to convert mechanical energy (e.g., spatial steric changes) generated by biochemical interactions into electrical energy. For example, the piezoelectric transducer may include one or more of polyvinylidene fluoride, piezoelectric polysaccharides (including cellulose, chitin, and / or chitosan), and piezoelectric nanofibers of carbon nanotubes, such as polycaprolactone carbon nanotubes with embedded glycine crystals. In some applications, the transducer 46 is a structural field-effect transistor and / or potentiostat configured to convert electrochemical potential changes resulting from biochemical interactions into electrical energy. In some applications, the analog-to-digital transducer 48 converts the signal generated by the transducer 46 into a digital signal.

[0081] In some embodiments, the power supply 50 is a small battery having a thickness of less than 500 microns and a diameter, length, and / or width of less than 15 mm each. Similarly, in some embodiments, the wireless transmitter 52 is a small battery-powered wireless transmitter having a thickness of less than 500 microns and a diameter, length, and / or width of less than 15 mm each.

[0082] In some embodiments, the substrate is configured such that a biological sample, such as excrement, becomes a near-reactive state with biosynthetic molecules 44 when the subject wipes (or is wiped) them with the substrate. For example, when toilet paper is used as the substrate, the subject's feces and / or urine become a near-reactive state with biosynthetic molecules when the subject wipes them with the toilet paper. Alternatively, when toilet paper, facial wipes, and / or tissue paper are used as the substrate, the subject's saliva, sweat, nasal discharge, mucus, sputum, sweat, tears, and / or other excrement from the subject becomes a near-reactive state with biosynthetic molecules when the subject wipes them with the substrate. Or, further, when toilet paper, a tampon, or a flushable pad is used as the substrate, the subject's vaginal secretions become a near-reactive state with biosynthetic molecules when the substrate is placed in contact with or in close proximity to the subject's vagina. In some embodiments, volatile organic compounds, epidermal tissue fluid, mucosal tissue fluid, and / or extracellular matrix (ECM) present in the subject's body are brought into a near-reactive state with biosynthetic molecules, for example, by being placed in contact with a substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate is placed in the toilet separately from the biological sample. For example, the subject may place the substrate in the toilet before, during, and / or after urinating and / or defecating into the toilet, so that the biological sample is brought into a near-reactive state with biosynthetic molecules on the substrate in the toilet.

[0083] In some embodiments, the aqueous environment of the water in the toilet bowl causes the biomarker to react with (or produce part of) the biosynthetic molecule 44 so that the biosynthetic molecule undergoes biochemical interaction. Thus, the biological sample becomes a near-reactive state with the biosynthetic molecule when the subject wipes it with the substrate, but the biochemical interaction (or part thereof) occurs only when the substrate is in the toilet bowl.

[0084] As described above, in some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 comprises one or more aptamers, molecularly imprinted polymers, antibodies, phages, and / or different types of biosynthetic molecules, which are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker. Some examples of such biomarkers and corresponding conditions are given below.

[0085] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of iodine, and a computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of iodine in a subject's biological sample (e.g., urine) by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating whether the subject's iodine intake is insufficient, adequate, and / or excessive. For example, in response to detecting that the iodine concentration in a subject's urine is below a threshold (e.g., 150 micrograms / liter or less), the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject's iodine intake is insufficient; in response to detecting that the iodine concentration in a subject's urine is within a given range (e.g., 150 to 499 micrograms / liter or a sub-range thereof), the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject's iodine intake is adequate; and / or, in response to detecting that the iodine concentration in a subject's urine exceeds a threshold (e.g., 500 micrograms / liter or more), the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject's iodine intake is excessive.

[0086] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and a computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in a subject's biological sample (e.g., urine) by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating the possibility that the female subject is pregnant, based on the detected concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). For example, in response to detecting that the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) concentration in the subject's urine is below a threshold (e.g., 70 picomoles / liter or less), the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject's iodine intake is insufficient; in response to detecting that the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) concentration in the subject's urine is within a given range (e.g., 70 to 174 picomoles / liter or a subrange thereof), the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject's pregnancy status is unknown; and / or, in response to detecting that the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) concentration in the subject's urine is above a threshold (e.g., 174 picomoles / liter or more), the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is likely pregnant.

[0087] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2), and a computer processor is configured to detect the concentrations of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2) in a biological sample from a subject by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the concentration of one or more of the aforementioned substances in the urine of a female subject (e.g., the first urine after waking). In some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the average concentration of one or more of the aforementioned substances in the urine of a subject over a given period (e.g., a period from one week to two months). In some of these applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal based on the concentration or average concentration of one or more of the aforementioned substances in the subject's urine. For example, in response to detecting that the concentration of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2) in the subject's urine is below a threshold, or that the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is above a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is postmenopausal; and in response to detecting that the concentration of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2) in the subject's urine is above a threshold, or that the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is below a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is premenopausal.

[0088] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) and / or luteinizing hormone (LH), and the computer processor is configured to detect the concentrations of pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) and / or luteinizing hormone (LH) in a biological sample from a subject by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the concentration of one or more of the aforementioned substances in the urine of a female subject (e.g., the first urine after waking). In some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating the current stage of the female subject's menstrual cycle based on the concentration or average concentration of one or more of the aforementioned substances in the subject's urine. For example, in response to detecting that the concentration of pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) in the subject's urine exceeds a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, and in response to detecting that the concentration of pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) in the subject's urine is below a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. Alternatively or additionally, in response to detecting that the concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the subject's urine is below a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, and in response to detecting that the concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the subject's urine exceeds a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle.

[0089] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and the computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the subject's urine by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the concentration of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the urine of a male subject (e.g., the first urine after waking). In some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating that the subject is likely to have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) based on the concentration of PSA in the subject's urine. In some applications, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject should undergo a serum PSA test, thereby allowing the subject to be diagnosed based on the ratio of urinary PSA to serum PSA.

[0090] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine), and a computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine) in a subject's urine by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the concentration of one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine) in the urine of a male subject. In some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the average concentration of one or more of the aforementioned substances in the subject's urine over a given period (e.g., a period of 12 to 72 hours). In some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating that the subject is likely to have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) based on the concentration and / or average concentration of one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine) in the subject's urine. In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more biomarkers indicating cancer (e.g., bladder cancer), and a computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of the biomarkers by detecting the signals generated by the substrate. In some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating that the subject is likely to have cancer, based on the concentration and / or average concentration of the biomarkers in a biological sample from the subject (e.g., urine).

[0091] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers indicating sexually transmitted infections and / or microbial, parasitic, and / or viral infections of the gastrointestinal and / or urinary tract, and a computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of the biomarkers by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. For example, the biosynthetic molecule 44 may contain a gonorrhea-specific monoclonal antibody configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Alternatively or additionally, the biosynthetic molecule 44 may contain a specific recombinant Treponema pallidum antigen (e.g., TPHA, TpN15, 17, 47) configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of Neisseria syphilis. Further alternatively or additionally, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of 3-hydroxy-2,4,4-trimethylpentyl 2-methylpropanoate to detect Trichomonas vaginalis. In some of these applications, the computer processor is configured to generate output (e.g., on a user interface device 32) indicating that the subject is likely to have a sexually transmitted infection, a gastrointestinal infection, and / or a urinary tract infection, based on the concentration and / or average concentration of biomarkers in a biological sample (such as urine or feces) from the subject.

[0092] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more biomarkers in urine, such as proteins (e.g., albumin) and / or creatinine. In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more inflammatory biomarkers in feces (e.g., calprotectin) and / or urine (e.g., nitrites).

[0093] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given type of pathogen in stool and / or urine to identify the source of infection. For example, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of pyuria, leukocyte esterase (LE), and / or nitrite in urine to detect urinary tract infections. Alternatively or additionally, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of calprotectin and / or lactoferrin in stool to detect gastrointestinal infections.

[0094] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of type B natriuretic peptide in the urine. In some such applications, the computer processor determines (or optionally generates an output indicating) the likelihood that a subject has congestive heart failure in response to the detection of type B natriuretic peptide in the urine and / or the detection that the concentration of type B natriuretic peptide in the urine exceeds a threshold. In some applications, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject should be tested for congestive heart failure.

[0095] In some applications, biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of troponin in urine. In some such applications, the computer processor determines (or optionally generates an output indicating) the likelihood that a subject has myocardial ischemia in response to the detection of troponin in urine and / or the detection of a troponin concentration in urine exceeding a threshold. In some applications, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject should be tested for myocardial ischemia.

[0096] As described above, in some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of urinary volatile organic compounds, and a computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of urinary volatile organic compounds in the subject's urine by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of urinary polyamines, and a computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of polyamines in the subject's urine by detecting the signal generated by the substrate. In some applications, urinary polyamines and / or urinary volatile organic compounds indicate that a male subject has prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Alternatively or additionally, urinary polyamines and / or urinary volatile organic compounds indicate that the subject may have cancer, autoimmune disease, and / or inflammation. Further alternatively or additionally, urinary polyamines and / or urinary volatile organic compounds indicate that the subject may have a sexually transmitted infection.

[0097] In some applications, the biosynthetic molecule 44 is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of biomarkers in the subject's saliva, sweat, nasal secretions, mucus, sputum, tears, vaginal secretions, and / or other excretions from the subject. In some applications, the substrate includes toilet paper, facial wipes, tampons, flushable pads, sanitary products, and / or tissue paper, and by the subject interacting with the substrate, for example by wiping them with the substrate, one or more of the aforementioned excretions are brought into a near-state where they can react with the biosynthetic molecule.

[0098] Referring to Figure 2, Figure 2 shows a flowchart illustrating the steps of a method performed according to several applications of the present disclosure. In some applications, in the first step 54, the subject wipes a part of their body with the substrate 26 so that the biological sample is deposited on the substrate. In some embodiments, this brings the biosynthetic molecules on the substrate into a near-reactive state in step 56, where they can react with a given biomarker in the biological sample. In some applications, in step 58, the substrate is then placed in a toilet bowl. In some embodiments, in step 60, the biomarker undergoes biochemical interaction and generates an electronic signal by placing the substrate in the aqueous environment of the water in the toilet bowl. In some embodiments, biochemical interaction occurs (electronic signals are generated by the substrate) even without placing the substrate in the aqueous environment of the water in the toilet bowl. Therefore, step 58 is shown in a dashed box, indicating that this step is optional. Furthermore, the steps in the solid box may be omitted, and additional steps may be performed.

[0099] In step 62, the biochemical interactions are converted into electronic signals. In some examples, the biochemical interactions result in changes in electrochemical potential, changes in spatial steric structure (i.e., dynamic changes), and / or thermal changes (e.g., via exothermic or endothermic reactions). The changes in electrochemical potential, changes in spatial steric structure, and / or thermal changes are converted into electronic signals. As described above, in some applications, the transducer 46 is a pyroelectric transducer configured to convert thermal changes due to biochemical interactions (e.g., generated or absorbed heat) into electrical energy, which may be detected by a computer processor. Alternatively or additionally, the transducer 46 is a piezoelectric transducer configured to convert mechanical energy generated by biochemical interactions into electrical energy, which may be detected by a computer processor. In some applications, an analog-to-digital transducer 48 converts the signal generated by the transducer 46 into a digital signal. In some applications, the transducer 46 is a structural field-effect transistor and / or potentiostat configured to convert changes in electrochemical potential resulting from biochemical interactions into electrical energy, which may be detected by a computer processor.

[0100] Next (in step 64), the computer processor receives the signal generated by the substrate. The computer processor analyzes the signal (in step 66) and (in step 68) generates an output in response.

[0101] As described above, in some applications, the biological sample is deposited in the toilet bowl separately from the substrate. For example, the subject may place the substrate in the toilet bowl before, during, and / or after urinating and / or defecating urine and / or feces into the toilet bowl, so that the biological sample is in a near-reactive state with the biosynthetic molecules on the substrate in the toilet bowl. In this application, the subject wipes them with the substrate, but the biosynthetic molecules on the substrate are configured to undergo biochemical interaction only once in the presence of biomarkers in the biological sample in the aqueous environment of the water in the toilet bowl. In some applications, instead of placing the biosynthetic molecules on the substrate, or in addition to doing so, the biosynthetic molecules are deposited in the toilet bowl by different methods. For example, a cartridge containing the biosynthetic molecules may be placed inside the toilet (e.g., inside the toilet bowl itself or inside the toilet tank), and the cartridge may be configured to inject the biosynthetic molecules into the toilet bowl and / or toilet tank.

[0102] The disclosures described herein may take the form of computer program products accessible from computer-available media or computer-readable media (e.g., non-temporary computer-readable media) that provide program code used by or associated with any instruction execution system, such as a computer or a user interface device 32, a computer processor 28 located within a housing 30, or a remote cloud-based computer processor. For the purposes of this specification, computer-available media or computer-readable media may be any device capable of containing, storing, communicating, propagating, or transferring programs used by or associated with instruction execution systems, apparatus, or devices. The medium may be an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device), or a propagation medium. In some applications, computer-available media or computer-readable media is non-temporary computer-available media or computer-readable media.

[0103] Examples of computer-readable media include semiconductor or solid-state memory, magnetic tape, removable computer diskettes, random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), fixed magnetic disks, and optical disks. Current examples of optical disks include compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), compact disc read / write (CD-R / W), and DVDs. Cloud storage is used in some applications.

[0104] A data processing system suitable for storing and / or executing program code would include at least one processor (e.g., the computer processor of the user interface device 32, the computer processor 28 located within the enclosure 30, or a remote cloud-based computer processor) directly or indirectly coupled to a memory element (e.g., the user interface device 32) via a system bus. The memory element may include local memory used during the actual execution of the program code, mass storage, and cache memory for temporarily storing at least some of the program code to reduce the number of times the code must be read from mass storage during execution. The system can read the instructions of the present invention on the program storage device and execute the methodology of embodiments of the present disclosure in accordance with these instructions.

[0105] Network adapters, by being coupled to a processor, can enable the processor to connect to other processors, remote printers, or storage devices over a private or public network. Modems, cable modems, and Ethernet cards are just a few of the network adapters currently available.

[0106] Computer program code for performing the operations of this disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java, Smalltalk, and C++, and programming languages ​​similar to conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as the C programming language.

[0107] It will be understood that the algorithms described herein can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a dedicated computer, or other programmable data processing device to generate a machine, thereby, instructions executed via the computer's processor (e.g., the computer processor of the user interface device 32, the computer processor 28 located within the enclosure 30, or a remote cloud-based computer processor) or other programmable data processing device, generate means for implementing the functions / operations specified by the algorithms described herein. These computer program instructions may be stored in a computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-temporary computer-readable medium) that can instruct the computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular way, thereby, instructions stored in the computer-readable medium generate a product containing instruction means for implementing the functions / operations specified by the algorithms. Computer program instructions may be loaded into a computer or other programmable data processing device to execute a series of operational steps on the computer or other programmable device to generate a computer implementation process, thereby, instructions executed on the computer or other programmable device, provide a process for implementing the functions / operations specified by the algorithms described herein.

[0108] In some examples, the computer processor described herein is a hardware device programmed by computer program instructions and constituting a dedicated computer. For example, when programmed to execute the algorithm described herein, the computer processor operates as a dedicated excrement analysis computer processor. In some examples, the operations performed by the computer processor described herein convert the physical state of memory, which is an actual physical item, to have magnetic polarity, electric charge, etc., depending on the technology of the memory used.

[0109] Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited to what is specifically shown and described above. Rather, the scope of this disclosure includes various combinations and subcombinations of the features described above, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not found in the prior art and that a person skilled in the art might conceive of upon reading the above description.

Claims

1. A device used in conjunction with biological samples from a subject, The aforementioned device is It is a substrate, A plurality of biosynthetic molecules arranged on the substrate are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample, A transducer configured to generate electrical energy in response to the aforementioned biochemical interaction, An apparatus comprising a substrate and a wireless transmitter configured to transmit a signal indicating the generated electrical energy.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises toilet paper configured to receive the subject's feces and / or urine within a reactive vicinity of the biosynthetic molecules in response to the subject's interaction with the toilet paper.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the substrate is configured to receive one or more excretions of the subject, selected from the group consisting of saliva, nasal secretions, mucus, sputum, sweat, and tears, within a reactive vicinity of the biosynthetic molecules in response to the subject's interaction with the substrate.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and flushable pads, and the substrate is configured to receive the vaginal secretions of the subject within a reactive vicinity of the biosynthetic molecules in response to the subject's interaction with the substrate.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the substrate is configured to receive the biological sample, selected from the group consisting of volatile organic compounds, epidermal tissue fluid, mucosal tissue fluid, and extracellular matrix (ECM) present in the body of the subject, within a reactive vicinity of the biosynthetic molecules in response to the subject's interaction with the substrate.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the wireless transmitter has a thickness of less than 500 microns.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the biosynthetic molecule comprises one or more biosynthetic molecules selected from the group consisting of aptamers, molecularly imprinted polymers, antibodies, and phages.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the substrate further comprises an analog-to-digital converter configured to convert the electrical energy generated by the converter into a digital signal.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the substrate further comprises a power supply.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the power supply includes a battery with a thickness of less than 500 microns.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is used together with a toilet, and the base is configured to be placed on the toilet.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the apparatus is used together with a sensor module disposed in the toilet bowl, and the wireless transmitter is configured to transmit the signal by transmitting a signal detectable by the sensor module.

13. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo the biochemical interaction in the water in the toilet bowl in the presence of the given biomarker in the biological sample.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions that produce a thermal change in the presence of the given biomarker.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the converter includes a pyroelectric converter configured to convert the thermal change caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy.

16. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions that cause a spatial conformational change in the presence of the given biomarker.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the converter includes a piezoelectric converter configured to convert the spatial stereostructure change caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy.

18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo a biochemical interaction that produces a change in electrochemical potential in the presence of the given biomarker.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the converter includes a structured field-effect transistor configured to convert the electrochemical potential change caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy.

20. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the converter includes a potentiostat configured to convert the change in electrochemical potential caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of iodine in the biological sample.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given pathogen in the biological sample.

23. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more inflammatory biomarkers in the biological sample.

24. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

25. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a biomarker in the biological sample indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal, and the biomarker is selected from the group consisting of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

26. The aforementioned biosynthetic molecule is The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of a biomarker in the biological sample indicating the menstrual cycle of a female subject, wherein the biomarker is selected from the group consisting of pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

27. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the biological sample.

28. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers in the biological sample indicating that a male subject may have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

29. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers in the biological sample indicating that the subject may have cancer, an autoimmune disease, and / or inflammation, and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

30. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers in the biological sample indicating that the subject may have a sexually transmitted infection, and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

31. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of type B natriuretic peptide in the urine of the subject.

32. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of troponin in the urine of the subject.

33. A biological sample from a subject is placed in a proximity to a plurality of biosynthetic molecules arranged on a substrate, so that the biosynthetic molecules undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample. When the biomarker is present in the biological sample, it generates electrical energy through the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule, A method comprising causing a transmitter placed on the substrate to generate a signal indicating the generated electrical energy.

34. The substrate includes toilet paper, The method according to claim 33, wherein placing the biological sample from the subject in a vicinity where it can react with the biosynthetic molecules includes bringing the subject's feces and / or urine into a vicinity where it can react with the biosynthetic molecules by the subject interacting with the toilet paper.

35. The method according to claim 33, wherein placing the biological sample from the subject in a vicinity where it can react with the biosynthetic molecule includes bringing one or more excretions of the subject, selected from the group consisting of saliva, sweat, nasal secretions, mucus, sputum, sweat, and tears, into a vicinity where they can react with the biosynthetic molecule through interaction between the subject and the substrate.

36. The method according to claim 33, wherein the substrate comprises a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and flushable pads, and the method comprises placing the biological sample from the subject in a vicinity where it can react with the biosynthetic molecules, thereby bringing the subject's vaginal secretions into a vicinity where they can react with the biosynthetic molecules by the subject interacting with the substrate.

37. The method according to claim 33, wherein placing the biological sample from the subject in a vicinity where it can react with the biosynthetic molecules includes bringing the biological sample, selected from the group consisting of volatile organic compounds, epidermal tissue fluid, mucosal tissue fluid, and extracellular matrix (ECM) present in the subject's body, into a vicinity where it can react with the biosynthetic molecules by the subject interacting with the substrate.

38. The method according to claim 33, wherein, if the biomarker is present in the biological sample, the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule is performed by placing the substrate in a toilet bowl.

39. The method according to claim 33, wherein, when the biomarker is present in the biological sample, the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule is performed such that the biosynthetic molecule undergoes a biochemical interaction that causes a thermal change in the presence of the given biomarker.

40. The method according to claim 39, wherein, when the biomarker is present in the biological sample, generating electrical energy through the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule includes converting the thermal change caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy using a pyroelectric converter as the converter.

41. The method according to claim 33, wherein, when the biomarker is present in the biological sample, the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule includes causing the biosynthetic molecule to undergo a biochemical interaction that results in a spatial conformational change in the presence of the given biomarker.

42. The method according to claim 41, wherein, when the biomarker is present in the biological sample, generating electrical energy through the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule includes converting the spatial stereostructural change caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy using a piezoelectric transducer as the transducer.

43. The method according to claim 33, wherein, when the biomarker is present in the biological sample, causing the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule includes causing the biosynthetic molecule to undergo an electrochemical potential change in the presence of the given biomarker.

44. The method according to claim 43, wherein, when the biomarker is present in the biological sample, generating electrical energy through the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule includes converting the change in the electrochemical potential caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy using a structural field-effect transistor as the converter.

45. The method according to claim 43, wherein, when the biomarker is present in the biological sample, generating electrical energy through the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule includes converting the change in the electrochemical potential caused by the biochemical interaction into electrical energy using a potentiostat as the converter.

46. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given pathogen in the biological sample.

47. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more inflammatory biomarkers in the biological sample.

48. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

49. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a biomarker in the biological sample indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal, and the biomarker is selected from the group consisting of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

50. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a biomarker in the biological sample indicating the menstrual cycle of a female subject, and the biomarker is selected from the group consisting of pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

51. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the biological sample.

52. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more biomarkers in the biological sample indicating that a male subject may have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

53. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of one or more biomarkers in the biological sample indicating that the subject may have cancer, and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

54. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interaction in the presence of one or more biomarkers in the biological sample indicating that the subject may have a sexually transmitted infection, and the one or more biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of urinary polyamines and urinary volatile organic compounds.

55. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of type B natriuretic peptide in the urine of the subject.

56. The method according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the biosynthetic molecule is configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of troponin in the urine of the subject.

57. A device used in conjunction with biological samples from subjects and a toilet, A substrate placed on the toilet bowl and configured to come into contact with the biological sample, the substrate configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal indicating the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample, A sensor configured to detect the signal generated by the substrate, An apparatus comprising a computer processor configured to generate an output in response to the detected signal.

58. The substrate is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal indicating the presence of type B natriuretic peptide in the urine of the subject. The apparatus according to claim 57, wherein the computer processor is configured to, in response, generate an output indicating that the subject may be suffering from congestive heart failure.

59. The substrate is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal indicating the presence of troponin in the urine of the subject, The apparatus according to claim 57, wherein the computer processor is configured to generate an output indicating the possibility that the subject is suffering from myocardial ischemia in response to this.

60. A device used in conjunction with biological samples from a subject, Multiple biosynthetic molecules configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample, A transducer configured to generate electrical energy in response to the aforementioned biochemical interaction, An apparatus comprising: a wireless transmitter configured to transmit a signal indicating the generated electrical energy.

61. A biological sample from a subject is placed in a location where it can react with multiple biosynthetic molecules, and the biosynthetic molecules are configured to undergo biochemical interactions in the presence of a given biomarker in the biological sample. When the biomarker is present in the biological sample, it generates electrical energy through the biochemical interaction with the biosynthetic molecule, A method comprising causing a transmitter to generate a signal indicating the generated electrical energy.

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