Endometriosis affects nearly 200 million people worldwide, including children. It’s a chronic condition where uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain and even infertility. Early detection and treatment can ease symptoms, but there’s no simple on – site test—until now.
Penn State Professor Dipanjan Pan and his team have developed a breakthrough: a menstrual blood test for endometriosis. It detects HMGB1, a protein linked to the disease, with 500% more sensitivity than current lab methods.
The test works like a pregnancy test. It uses borophene, a 2D nanomaterial similar to graphene but more biocompatible.
The team created pure borophene nanosheets using water (instead of harsh solvents), then attached antibodies that target HMGB1. When menstrual blood flows over the strip, HMGB1 binds to the antibodies, darkening the strip for a clear result.
Why is this a big deal? Current endometriosis diagnosis is slow and complicated. It involves blood tests, imaging, and long patient histories—leading to delays of up to 12 years in the U.S., according to one study.
Menstrual blood is often stigmatized as “waste,” but Pan sees its potential. “This test can reduce stigma while advancing women’s health,” he said. It could even be built into menstrual pads for easy at – home use, helping rural or low – resource areas.
Next steps? The team plans to scale up for clinical trials, boost sensitivity, and expand the test to detect other issues like HPV and cervical cancer.
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