Biomedical engineers have developed an artificial intelligence (AI)–enhanced pen for personalized handwriting analysis to aid in the early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). 

In a small pilot study, the “diagnostic pen” accurately recorded handwriting signals, and neural network-assisted analysis successfully distinguished PD from non-PD handwriting with greater than 95% accuracy.

“While significant research and development are still required, we are optimistic about its potential for future use in both clinical and home settings,” Chen said.

The study was published online on June 2 in Nature Chemical Engineering.

The pen Chen and colleagues developed comprises a soft magnetoelastic silicone tip embedded with magnetic particles and a reservoir of ferrofluid ink. These components convert handwriting motions — both on paper and in the air — into high-fidelity, analyzable electrical signals.

Source: MEDspace