This proposal addresses the need for a simple, low-cost diagnostic to monitor T cell function in HIV-infected patients. Experience with HIV patients undergoing highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) has shown that total T cell count is a useful but insufficient measure of the functional status of the immune system. A more pertinent indicator would be the quantity and quality of HIV-specific memory T cells, and it is believed this subpopulation can be determined by measuring the expression profile of genes linked to memory T cell function. The proposed diagnostic is based on a novel optical chip that is ideally suited for routine, low-density array testing. There is no need for the complex processing steps or expensive analytical instruments associated with conventional high-density array gene chips, and it is expected that the disposable optical chips can be mass-produced for <$5. The Phase I program will use an existing LCMV mouse model to establish feasibility. A prototype optical chip for quantifying the expression profile of several genes linked to CD8 memory T-cell function will be developed and assessed. If successful, a follow-on Phase II program will focus directly on monitoring memory T cell function in HIV-infected humans.

Proposed Commercial Applications

A practical, low-cost diagnostic for monitoring HIV-specific T cell function would be a valuable adjunct to T cell counts and viral loads in regulating patients undergoing HAART and other treatment regimens. In addition, the basic test format could easily be applied to other immune-related disorders, pharmacogenomics and clinical trials.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
7R43AI048318-02
Application #
6613712
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-AARR-3 (10))
Program Officer
Livnat, Daniella
Project Start
2001-09-30
Project End
2003-08-31
Budget Start
2002-09-01
Budget End
2003-08-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2002
Total Cost
$386,077
Indirect Cost
Name
Ngimat Company
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Atlanta
State
GA
Country
United States
Zip Code
30341