CreatiQuick is a compact, paper-based diagnostic device designed for the rapid, colorimetric detection of creatinine levels in biological fluids such as urine or serum. This low-cost, point-of-care solution is intended for early screening of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), offering a simple visual readout to indicate whether the user's creatinine level is within a healthy range.
According to recent global health statistics, 1 in 10 people suffer from CKD, and the mortality rate has increased by 141.5% between 1990 and 2017. Regular monitoring of creatinine is critical for early intervention and better prognosis.
CreatiQuick operates using two primary mechanisms:
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Paper-Based Microfluidics
- A nitrocellulose membrane is used to passively transport the sample (via capillary action) to the reaction zone.
- This membrane works on the principle of diffusion and fluid wicking, enabling a power-free system.
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Colorimetric Detection
- The creatinine in the sample reacts with 50 mM Picric Acid and 0.1 M NaOH (2:1 ratio), forming a chromogen.
- The resulting yellow-orange color intensity correlates with creatinine concentration.
- The chromogen absorbs light at 490 nm, making quantification possible via image analysis or a visual reference strip.
Creatinine + Picric Acid → Chromogen (colored complex)
- Safe range: Lighter yellow tones
- Unsafe range: Darker orange tones
- The test can be interpreted using a simple color chart or spectrophotometric analysis.
- Pocket-sized and user-friendly
- No external power or instrumentation required
- Based on well-known Jaffé reaction
- Visual output in under 1 minute
- Home diagnostics for kidney health
- Rural healthcare settings with limited resources
- Rapid screening in clinics or during community health camps
- Mobile lab kits for field researchers
Developed by Arijit Mohanta at IIT Guwahati.
For questions, please contact: [email protected]