Cardiochip: a multi-metabolite sensor for heart disease

Lead Research Organisation: University of Glasgow
Department Name: College of Science and Engineering

Abstract

We are working on developing microelectronic sensor technology for use in diagnostic applications. In this project we will investigate the possibility of using silicon CMOS technology to make multi-metabolite sensors for use in several possible medical applications. This will require the design and implementation of post-processed chips and the demonstration of the functionality of the sensors. The sensors will be optical types and electrochemical types, with the aim of both working simultaneously on the same chip. These experiments will commence in vitro, with suitable phantoms and test analytes, and then with suitable models. These last will be achieved in collaboration with Dr Jesse Dawson, a cardiovascular consultant in Glasgow University. With these links the project will demonstrate the value and efficacy of new technologies developed by the student.

Publications

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Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/N509668/1 01/10/2016 30/09/2021
1831920 Studentship EP/N509668/1 01/12/2016 01/06/2020 Valerio Annese
 
Description Metabolomics, through the accurate description of the current phenotype, promises to succeed where, despite the extensive research, proteomics and genomics strive to overcome major challenges. In this project, we are developing a handheld metabolomics-on-CMOS platform capable of multiple metabolite assays in less than 5 minutes and from a single drop of blood. The enzyme-based assays, performed using optical methods, are confined into capillary microchannels fabricated on top of the sensitive area. Assay-specific bio-receptors are constricted in a solid-state into the microstructures by direct bioprinting.
As a case study, the platform has been employed for the quantification of metabolites linked to heart failure and cancer. Work is now in progress to demonstrate the suitability of the platform to perform metabolites quantification in the physiological range. We believe this platform could enable a new generation of commercial devices in the footsteps of the current commercial glucometers for quick multi-metabolite quantification for both acute and chronic medicine.
Exploitation Route A University spin-out has been created also thanks to the findings of this project. The spin-out is called 'Multicorder DX'. (https://www.multicorderdx.co.uk/). Multicorder DX is now in the process of securing new fundings for the commercialization of the product.
Also, we are in the process of submitting a patent partially based on the findings of this project.
Sectors Agriculture, Food and Drink,Chemicals,Electronics,Environment,Healthcare,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology

URL https://www.multicorderdx.co.uk/
 
Description A University spin-out company has been created: ' Multicorder DX' (https://www.multicorderdx.co.uk/)
Sector Electronics,Environment,Healthcare,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology
Impact Types Societal,Economic

 
Description Clinical trials 
Organisation Beatson Institute for Cancer Research
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Clinical sample testing using the developed platform.
Collaborator Contribution Beatson Institute for Cancer provided serum samples of patients. Loughborough University performed independent testing of the samples.
Impact A scientific paper is now in progress together with the partners
Start Year 2019
 
Description Clinical trials 
Organisation Loughborough University
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Clinical sample testing using the developed platform.
Collaborator Contribution Beatson Institute for Cancer provided serum samples of patients. Loughborough University performed independent testing of the samples.
Impact A scientific paper is now in progress together with the partners
Start Year 2019
 
Company Name MULTICORDER DX LIMITED 
Description Handheld multi-metabolite platform for in-home testing. 
Year Established 2019 
Impact The company is now in the process of securing new funding and IP rights.
Website https://www.multicorderdx.co.uk/
 
Description Healthcare showcase/Megameet - Edinburgh 18 April 2018 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Outcomes from big research projects were presented. This was a perfect activity to understand the research trend nowdays as well as build collaborations with Universities and industries.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description IEEE Conference 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Oral presentation of the platform to the IEEE IWASI 2019 Conference, held in Italy.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Sensorthon, Liverpool - 28 Nov 2018 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact NHS professionals, patients, academics and industries were able to discuss and the implementation of smart sensors for better patient care. They all have different views about what is needed and what is achievable. This was a brilliant discussion which clarified problems and needs related to hospitals, emergency units and community, aiming to bridge the gap among NHS, patients and industy/Universities.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.sensorcity.co.uk/event/sensorthon/