Introduction: Precision Photonics Corporation proposes to develop a Biochip diagnostic system that cansimultaneously test for a broad range of markers for human infectious diseases. The system is based on atechnology proven for biothreat detection, developed over 17 years by the US Navy. The system consists ofa multi-pathogen sensor that can rapidly detect up to 20 targets at once to diagnose infectious diseases ofthose presenting with symptoms consistent with a bioterror attack. The portable analyzer can be useddirectly in the clinic and will provide point-of-care results in as few as 15 minutes. The easy-to-use systemrequires minimal sample preparation and expertise to operate, and the total cost per multi-pathogen test canbe kept below $10. The attractiveness of this technology is that a working prototype exists meeting all ofthese characteristics, and the focus of this proposal is to refine the technology in terms of cost,manufacturability, and ease of use. The technology will also be adapted for clinical use, with tests thatspecifically determine disease status in humans. The Biochip platform first will be optimized for some of themost serious diseases caused by bioterror agents: anthrax, plague, and tularemia.Project Interactions: The technology is a platform technology, forming the basis of a whole infrastructureof diagnostics and detection. The technology will accept inputs of new chemicals from antigen discoveryand antibody development, and we anticipate that discoveries and developments from other components ofthe RCE will be quickly adapted to the platform and used for diagnostics. Further, once qualified fordiagnostic use, the technology can be used for diagnostics and monitoring, such as in animal model studies.Specifically in the development of the technology, there are several critical interactions within the RCE. Theuse of the BSL-3 facilities at CSU will be necessary for growth of samples and confounding agents. Havingthis facility local to both Precision Photonics and UCHSC is very advantageous. Second, we anticipateworking with a training candidate to test the technology in lab trials. Helping to develop and test a newtechnology such as the Biochip Reader is an ideal training situation, as it gives complete insight into howimmunosensors work, engineering trade-offs in designing equipment for the 'real world', and howtechnology is qualified for a given application.
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