Northwestern University researchers have developed the first wearable device for measuring gases emitted from and absorbed by the skin. By analyzing these gases, the device offers an entirely new way to assess skin health, including monitoring wounds, detecting skin infections, tracking hydration levels, quantifying exposure to harmful environmental chemicals and more. 

Researchers have long explored how fragile microscopic containers naturally found in raw cow’s milk — called exosomes — can be used to carry medicine through the body. Now, Virginia Tech scientists have improved a freeze-drying process that keeps exosomes stable for up to a year at room temperature. It’s a game-changer, it may allow medicine to be encapsulated and shipped without a costly cold-supply chain.