A groundbreaking research initiative at the Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, has unveiled an exciting new approach called ‘bio-tagging’.
This clever technique employs a specially designed microneedle array system, enabling the safe and effective application of identifiable ink.
The method introduces a novel way to tag animals—both beloved pets and livestock—by utilizing unique sequences of numbers or letters, promising a range of applications in animal management and scientific research.
Innovative Design and Application
In a recent article published in *Scientific Reports*, the team shared their innovative design: a series of tiny, dissolvable microneedles that can be inserted directly into an animal’s skin.
This process not only offers a durable means of identification but also ensures that the markings are easily visible to anyone who might encounter the animal.
According to Jongho Park, the lead author of the study, this technique provides a more humane and straightforward alternative for labeling animals, making it an excellent choice for various settings, from homes to farms.
Flexibility and User-Friendly Application
The team crafted these microneedle array patches (MAPs) using custom molds made from polydimethylsiloxane.
This method allows for the creation of unique symbols akin to those produced by a dot-matrix printer.
Beomjoon Kim, the senior author, emphasized the flexibility of this technique, noting that it permits a wide variety of unique identifiers while remaining user-friendly, requiring no special training for application.
Long-lasting Impact and Future Applications
Subsequent trials revealed that these biometric tags maintained their clarity on the skin for more than a month after application.
This novel tagging system not only stands to benefit animal research and management but also holds promise for applications in biomedical fields and advanced flexible electronics.
With such potential, bio-tagging may soon revolutionize the way we identify and manage animals in numerous domains.
Source: Science Daily