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A bandage that glows when it detects infection

Flesh-coloured bandages are straightforward in their purpose – to cover up sores and cuts to speed up the healing process. Scientists are now developing an adhesive bandage that turns florescent green when it senses an infection.

Researchers at the University of Bath developed the product, which uses a gel-like material to help identify infection on the wound. The substance contains a non-toxic florescent dye that’s released when it comes in contact with bacteria known to cause infections within abrasions.

The outer layer of the gauze is meant to imitate a cell membrane, so when bacteria begins producing toxins and enzymes to breakdown normal tissue, it also punctures the membrane like it would any normal cell. This causes the dye to be released, leading it to glow under UV light.

This visual aid would help physicians detect infection, as well as reduce the use of antibiotics, particularly in burn victims.

The bright bandage won’t be hitting the market any time soon, as it’s still awaiting clinical trial. However, MIT Technology Review suggests that if studies go well, it could be ready for human testing by 2018.