131949Automation of sputum biomarker analysis for respiratory disease in Self-Management (Diagnostics).ClosedFeasibility StudiesInnovate UKRespiratory disease is the EU's 2nd largest cause of premature death, resulting from years of a slow decline in health. Hospitalisation for 14 day periods become frequent as prognosis worsens - highly disruptive for patient and family carers. Self-management through self-monitoring at home, through patient/carer training and empowerment reduces frequency non-scheduled admissions via A&E. We have developed a patent-protected test in collaboration with 2 NHS Trusts which is supported with a range of vital sign monitors, to enable patients to self-manage, predict flare-ups (exacerbations) so as to provide early-warning and earlier use of antibiotics. Our test quantifies the level of virulence of the most common pathogen (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) which increases prior to exacerbation. Our test has been successfully ported to a rapid format (Lateral Flow Device) and we have developed a proprietary means to release these biomarkers from sputum. We now need to automate the entire test process for: simplicity of use at home; reproducibility and reliability, in a disposable cartridge format.