Just this past week, the London-based biotech-startup DNANudge was granted their second patent application. The application (U.S. App. Num. 20200234807) teaches a method and smart device capable of using a wearers DNA to assist in making healthy choices while grocery shopping. First, the wearer submits an initial DNA sample to DNANudge for analysis. The analysis specifically looks for DNA markers that indicate a predisposition to certain hereditary disorders. Once a predisposition is identified, the data is uploaded to an app on a smartphone that communicates with a bracelet worn by the customer. This bracelet contains a bar code reader and indicator lights. As the wearer grocery shops, they are able to scan the bar codes of foods using the bracelet. The bracelet then uses the stored genetic information of the wearer to determine whether the food being scanned is a healthy choice based on their predispositions toward a disorder. If the food is a healthy choice, the bracelet lights up green, but if not, the bracelet flashes red. This system allows people to make healthier split-second decisions while grocery shopping and is customized for each customer based on their hereditary information. Additionally, the bracelet has an activity monitor and may flash yellow if the wearer remains sitting for too long.
The device can also be used to control weight by monitoring calorie intake against calories used throughout the day. Some foods that would normally flash green may actually flash yellow or red if the person has consumed too many calories already, or not actively burned enough calories that day. Currently, the product is only available in the UK, but with the wearable technology growing so quickly in the US, it is only a matter of time before it's available here. Make sure to stay up to date with the latest patent activity by subscribing to the Magic Number AI Biotech/Diagnostic Patent Forecast ®.
