Publications

Research outputs, reports, policy briefs and knowledge products from KIU scholars and partners.

2026 Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES (NIJRMS)

Nanosensors for Early Detection of Obesity-Related Metabolic Disorders

Nyiramana Mukamurera P.

Obesity is strongly linked to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Early detection of these complications is crucial for timely intervention, yet current diagnostic methods often lack sensitivity, specificity, or the ability to provide real-time monitoring. Nanosensors, designed at the nanometer scale with unique optical, electrochemical, and mechanical properties, offer unprecedented opportunities for detecting biomarkers of metabolic dysfunction with high precision. These devices can identify glucose, lipids, inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress markers at very low concentrations, enabling early diagnosis before clinical symptoms appear. This review highlights the principles of nanosensor technology, recent advances in obesity-related biomarker detection, translational challenges, clinical applications, and future directions. The integration of nanosensors with wearable devices and digital health platforms promises a transformative shift toward personalized and preventive obesity care.