MICRODIAGNOSIS: Bioanalytical MICROsystem for rapid and on-site DIAGNOSIS of sepsis
Code: Τ1ΕΔΚ-00101
The project MICRODIAGNOSIS aims to develop an intelligent portable system for the rapid, low-cost, and reliable identification of biochemical markers of sepsis. Sepsis is the result of a generalized inflammatory response of the organism to a local microbial infection that can lead to the failure of multiple vital organs and death. Therefore, the existence of a device that could assist in the early diagnosis of sepsis by significantly reducing the time from blood sample collection to result, currently requiring 1.5-2.0 hours, is of utmost importance for both patient health and the healthcare system. The implementation of such a device is based on advancements in analytical chemistry and microelectronics, leading to the development of Point-of-Care Testing (PoCT) systems for patient-side analyses. These systems can aid medical personnel in more effectively managing patients.
In this context, the MICRODIAGNOSIS project is developing an innovative integrated bioanalytical system for the rapid detection of three indicators (CRP, PCT, IL-6) that have been proven to be associated with the diagnosis of sepsis in whole blood, serum, or plasma, with high analytical sensitivity and accuracy. This system can be used by medical personnel at points where analysis needs to be performed, such as emergency departments, intensive care units, etc., without requiring specialized knowledge of its operation and result interpretation.
The MICRODIAGNOSIS system is based on White Light Reflectance Spectroscopy from suitably configured and activated patches of pyrite, a technology patented by ThetaMetrisis. Biochemical reactions (e.g., antigen-antibody reactions) occurring on the surface of the patches result in the progressive increase in the thickness of the bio-layer and the shift of the reflection spectrum to longer wavelengths. By adapting the reflection spectrum using appropriate computational models, the thickness and refractive index of the bio-layer are determined, and this information is translated into the analyte concentration in the sample. The MICRODIAGNOSIS system can accurately determine the concentration of the three biomarkers in less than 30 minutes from blood collection and at a cost much lower than current diagnostic laboratory methods, providing benefits for both patient health and the healthcare system.
