MULTISENSE CHIP

The lab-free CBRN detection device for the identification of biological pathogens on nucleic acid and immunological level as lab-on-a-chip system applying multisensor technologies

 Partecipanti

Mappa

 Word cloud

Esplora la "nuvola delle parole (Word Cloud) per avere un'idea di massima del progetto.

 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The goal of MultiSENSE is the development of a detection and identification system for biological pathogens, which shall include both the sample preparation stage, during which target molecules are extracted directly and in parallel the ensuing nucleic-acid-based and/or immunological detection and identification steps, in order to build an integrated “sample in, result out” system. Disruptive technologies (e.g., advanced sensor technologies like optoelectronic sensors or electrochemical sensors), lab-on-chip technology, and innovative instrumentation are key to reaching the presently unrealized goal of identifying pathogens in parallel on both the molecular biology level via PCR and the immunological route. The chosen technologies offer several advantages: on the one hand, a small, portable, and easy-to-use device can be realized due to miniaturization; on the other, the so-called lab-on-chip technology enables operation outside of lab settings, meaning that the complete analysis including sample preparation, extraction of target molecules, etc. will be carried out in a small device the size of a microtiter plate with all necessary reagents on board. This includes dry reagent storage of lysis reagents, master mixes for the PCR, antibodies, and liquid storage of buffers. Furthermore, it will be imperative that an on-chip waste storage be included in order to eliminate contamination risk. The overall target is a “sample in, result out”-type handling procedure. A reduction of processing times is a further advantage owed to miniaturization and the combination of all biological processes in a small disposable chip instead of different instruments. Finally, suitably equipped biological laboratories are no longer necessary to run PCR and immunological assays as portable systems may instead be used to analyze suspicious samples directly at the point of interest. Sensor technology will be another enabling technology we will apply.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

The MULTISENSE CHIP project will reduce the processing time of microbiological detection in urgent cases in particular. Through an innovative 'sample in, result out' system, project partners hope to provide a fast solution for detecting multiple pathogens in parallel.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Pathogen detection is a laborious process that usually relies on microbiology-based methods. However, there are instances where information on contaminants is immediately required for appropriate containment measures to be taken.

The scope of the EU-funded http://www.multisense-chip.com (MULTISENSE CHIP) project is to develop a lab-on-a-chip component for the fast detection of multiple pathogens simultaneously. The consortium will focus on B priority pathogens (Brucella species and Bacillus antracis) in line with the international biodefense and infectious diseases guidelines.

Key to the development of this novel device is the use of advanced sensor technologies, lab-on-a-chip technology and innovative instrumentation. The detection is based on simultaneous analysis by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunological methods, providing a fast response within the hour.

Automatic sample preparation and target molecule extraction will be followed by biochemical detection and finally a readout process via different sensor technologies. The rationale is that all these processes will be performed on a small disposable chip in the same device instead of different instruments. Most importantly, this system will offer a lab-free approach without the need for specialist personnel and space.

For system realisation, partners have performed extensive optimisation at the technical and biological levels. They have worked on the molecular assays, the sensor technologies, and the instrument development and set-up. Different ways of sampling have been tested, alongside methods for extracting microbial DNA and for amplifying specific regions of the genome by PCR. With respect to the immunoassay component of the chip, target molecules will be detected by electrochemiluminescent-, electrochemical- and fluorescence-based sensors.

Taken together, this multi-level analysis of the pathogens in question will provide a more accurate diagnosis and prove greatly beneficial for both medicine and veterinary science. The MULTISENSE CHIP system will also enable first responders and authorities to obtain information fast on potential contaminations and thus take appropriate measures.