27
An
Electrochemical Microfluide System--Lynntech, Inc., 7610 Eastmark Drive, Suite 202, College Station, TX
77840-4023; 979-693-0017
Dr
Dalibor Hodko, Principal Investigator, hodko@lynntech.com
Dr.
G. Duncan Hitchens, Business Official, hitchesn@lynntech.com
DOE
Grant No. DE-FG03-00ER83038
Amount:
$725,000
A
recent advance in high-throughput genomic technologies has led to the
development of methods for whole-genome sequencing and for the establishment of
comprehensive mRNA expression maps. However,
no equivalent technology is currently available for the rapid analysis of
proteins and/or large toxicological molecules that are important as effector
molecules in biological control or drug development. This project will develop a portable, versatile analyzer for
automated, high-throughput analysis of clinically important drugs and proteins
in biological fluids such as blood and urine.
The approach is based on new micro/nano fluidics technology that can be
used to analyze large biomolecules in complex sample matrices, combining
molecular recognition and signal transduction in a single element.
Phase I demonstrated highly specific recognition of large protein
molecules using two new types of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP).
A unique electrical signal transduction system was developed to sense the
specific binding interactions between the analyte molecule and the MIP sensing
element. Phase II will optimize the
MIPs affinity toward selected, clinically important drugs and proteins, and
develop protocols for their detection in biological fluids.
Phase II also will provide optimization and testing of the design and
fabrication of a prototype, micro/nano fluidic device capable of analyzing
multiple samples and multiple proteins using an array of sensing elements /tranducers.
Commercial
Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A detection system for
sensing/recognition of proteins and/or toxicological drugs in complex biological
samples should lead to a portable, low cost, and simple to use instrument for
point-of-care clinical diagnostics. Potential commercial applications should include
therapeutical drug development, medical toxicology, clinical diagnostics,
forensics, food, and environmental analysis.