Lollylab oral sensor prototype targets pediatric health checks

USC researchers developed a lollipop-shaped device that detects acetaminophen in saliva for kids

USC researchers created Lollylab, a lollipop-shaped oral sensor prototype that detects acetaminophen in saliva using graphene. The device requires just 0.3 milliliters of saliva—about six drops—to test within 60 seconds, with results available in under two minutes. It uses a peach-flavored candy shell to improve pediatric compliance during saliva collection. Current testing involved six human subjects who consumed acetaminophen, showing the technology works in lab conditions. Lollylab remains an experimental prototype with no clinical deployment, published in ACS Sensors 2026.

This could reduce barriers to pediatric health monitoring if scaled, by offering non-invasive checks that avoid needles or blood draws. However, the small sample size and lack of real-world validation mean it hasn’t yet proven its ability to handle actual clinical use or diverse pediatric populations. The technology’s path to practical health access remains untested at scale.

Source: New Atlas