As Singapore celebrates 60 years, we’re spotlighting breakthroughs that protect the most vulnerable. The BiophysicaL Immune Profiling for Infants (BLIPI) device, co-developed by SMART and KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, exemplifies how our medical innovation saves lives from day one.
One Drop, 15 Minutes, Life-Saving Insight
BLIPI is the first of its kind to profile a newborn’s immune system using just a single drop of blood—about 0.05 ml—and deliver results within 15 minutes at the bedside.
Traditional tests need up to 1 ml of blood and lab processing over hours or days—challenging in cases of preterm babies with only ~50 ml of total blood. BLIPI eliminates that gap.
Tackling Sepsis & NEC Early
BLIPI measures real-time immune responses to detect serious conditions like newborn sepsis and necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) before clinical symptoms appear. In trials with 19 infants, BLIPI spotted immune changes that matched standard markers (like CRP and WBC counts) and flagged infection early.
Designed for Those Who Need It Most
Developed by SMART’s CAMP and AMR research groups alongside KKH, BLIPI combines microfluidics with neonatal care for real-world use at the cot-side. It’s portable and minimally invasive—ideal for neonatal wards worldwide, even in resource-limited clinics.
A Homegrown Innovation with Global Impact
Supported by SMART, KKH, and Singapore’s National Research Foundation, BLIPI reflects the synergy between research and clinical care. Going forward, larger trials and international adaptation plans are already in motion—extending Singapore’s fight against infant mortality globally.
SG60: Preparing the Next Generation of Care
BLIPI’s power lies not only in its technology—but in what it stands for: a nation that builds solutions, from research to bedside. As Singapore marks its 60th year, BLIPI reminds us that our future is cared for from its very first days.
This isn’t just healthcare. It’s Heartcare—by Singapore, for the world.
