Bioinformatics: Devices of the future

What are bioinformatic devices?
Bioinformatics is an application of computer technology, which mainly deals with management of biological information of patients. From gathering, storing, analysing and integrating biological and genetic information, this can then be applied to gene-based drug discovery and development, which is a relatively new concept.

Why do we need them?
Today, we still use traditional medical treatments like antibiotics, vaccines and physical surgeries to deal with illnesses and diseases. However, with the medical field progressing at a faster-than-ever pace, new devices and treatment methods may help a great deal. While talking about the idea and the need for bioinformatic-powered devices, Dr. Ragavendra Baliga, Associate Director, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Ohio, says, “Such devices will be both diagnostic and therapeutic giving the patient more control over their health, and that too at their fingertips.” No longer will patients have to line up at hospitals to constantly check for diabetes, blood pressure or even their heart rate. “These devices will allow patients to track important parameters such as blood sugar, heart rate and blood pressure. In fact, companies like Target are offering this facility to their employees,” he adds.

Doctors vs. devices
Dr. Baliga explained that there will be physicians who will be early adopters of new technology, however, there are some who prefer traditional methods. “Eventually, bioinformatic-powered devices are likely to empower both the physician and the patient to do more for better health as well as prevention and treatment of various ailments. So, I don’t think that doctors would frown at such devices as such technology will only help bridge some gaps in healthcare,” he explains.

Accuracy
While speaking about the accuracy of these devices, Dr. Baliga explains, “Since these devices are still new, they will have complications like infection, strokes and clotting of devices. However, for every device like any medication, if the benefits outweigh the risk then it is worth it. As for recycling, devices like the Pacemaker, which have just been used in the USA, are recycled and reused.”

Affordability
Dr. Baliga states that such devices will be expensive. However, as they become generic, they should be within the reach of the general public. “While India is dealing with universal healthcare issues, once dealt with, it would be easy for Indians to scale up to include modern technologies,” he concludes.

BIOINFORMATIC-POWERED DEVICES 

Fitbit Pocket Clip 

Fitbit, a diagnostic device that tracks the number of steps taken, distance travelled, calories burnt, activity intensity and sleep. Fitbit is clipped discreetly onto one’s clothing and worn 24/7, giving the user 100 per cent control over their health data.

Theranos

Theranos is a device that uses a finger stick to draw a micro-litre sample of blood into a disposable cartridge, which is then loaded into the device's ‘reader’ for analysis. It ensures accuracy by reducing or eliminating human handling and delays associated with traditional blood tests.

HeartMate 3

This is a mechanical circulatory support device that deals with advanced heart failure. It is designed to lower adverse event rates, while also enhancing the ease of surgical placement with its compact size.

Wireless Pacemaker

The tiny, wireless pacemaker is placed in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms. This device uses low-energy electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate.