10110184User-Informed Development for a Sample Collection Kit and Integration With Plasmonic PCR Platform for Single Step Microbial Disease Detection and Treatment in West YorkshireClosedLaunchpadInnovate UKProject Title: User-Informed Development for a Sample Collection Kit and Integration With Plasmonic PCR Platform for Single Step Microbial Disease Detection and Treatment in West Yorkshire Introduction: As part of the innovative health technology sector in West Yorkshire, our project is uniquely positioned to address the critical need for rapid and accurate microbial disease detection and treatment. Leveraging a grant from Innovate UK's "Launchpad: health technology, West Yorkshire -- R1 MFA" initiative, we are developing a cutting-edge kit and plasmonic platform. This project, which aligns with the regional goal of fostering economic growth through health technology innovation, is set to revolutionize the way microbial diseases are detected and treated, building upon our extensive research in plasmonic PCR technology. Objective: Our aim is to create a customized sample collection kit for our single-step, highly efficient, and user-friendly detection and treatment platform. This initiative is especially significant for healthcare providers in West Yorkshire, promising to streamline the diagnosis of microbial diseases, thereby enabling faster and more effective treatment interventions. Technology Overview: At the heart of our project is the innovative use of plasmonic nanoparticles. These particles are engineered to resonate at specific light frequencies, making it possible to identify microbial DNA with extraordinary precision. Combined with an advanced, simplified PCR process, this technology allows for quick amplification and detection of microbial genetic material, setting a new standard in disease diagnostics. Collaborative Development: A standout feature of our project is the collaboration with Dr Rohan Aziz from Bradford Teaching Hospital Trust, who will play a crucial role in Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) consultations. This ensures that our development is deeply informed by end-user feedback and real-world healthcare challenges. Local Commitment and Team Composition: In line with the competition's emphasis on regional development, two out of three named team members are based in the West Yorkshire cluster. Further demonstrating our commitment to the region, we plan to establish a full office in West Yorkshire, expanding our team to 5-10 employees within the next year and a half. This expansion not only aligns with our project goals but also contributes to the economic and innovation landscape of the area. Impact and Benefits: This project is poised to deliver substantial benefits, including: * Quicker and more accurate disease detection. * Enhanced usability for a broad range of users, from healthcare professionals to potentially home users. * Contribution to the economic growth and technological advancement of West Yorkshire.