June 28, 2025
Report

Enhancements to Lab-on-a-Fish Technology : Final Report for I3T Project 81245

Abstract

PNNL has engaged in discussions with several organizations regarding potential future collaborations. PNNL has developed the Lab-on-a-Fish prototypes and produced video instructions for an organization conducting research on shark eggs. Several organizations have expressed interest in using the Lab-on-a-Fish for their studies. We’ve also updated two versions of the Lab-on-a-Fish to expand its applications to a wider range of animal studies and accelerate its commercialization. The new design of the Lab-on-a-Fish, which incorporates PCB-based electrodes, has demonstrated the ability to capture clear ECG signals without the need for additional needle-shaped electrodes. This innovation eliminates the need for implanting electrodes beneath the fish's skin at specific locations, which is required with the current version of Lab-on-a-Fish. This change significantly simplifies the manufacturing and implantation process. For the Lab-on-a-Fish design that uses an optical pulse oximeter, the measurement results were primarily influenced by respiratory activity rather than heart rate. This occurred because the oximeter was placed beneath the operculum. Further research and development are needed to explore more suitable locations and methods for accurate pulse oximeter measurements.

Published: June 28, 2025

Citation

Deng Z., J. Lu, W. Hwang, B.D. Pflugrath, and H. Li. 2025. Enhancements to Lab-on-a-Fish Technology : Final Report for I3T Project 81245 Richland, WA: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.