SPIN(off)MIND – nanoStructured, Plasmonic, ImmuNofunctionalized Matrices for Early and Ultra-sensitive Detection of NeuroDegenerative Diseases
Duration: 2025 - 2029
Description of the project
We would all like to live long lives—80, 85 years, or even more. But with age comes an increasing risk of diseases that affect our brain. It is estimated that half of those who reach such an age will develop neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The other half will have to face caring for loved ones who are affected by them. Neurodegenerative diseases are a challenge for society as a whole. Unfortunately, we still do not know how to cure them. Why? Because most therapies have been tested only when the disease was already advanced and symptoms such as memory or cognitive impairment had appeared. And that is far too late—the processes that destroy nerve cells begin as early as 15–20 years beforehand! The project involves the development of ultrasensitive sensors—nanoStructured, Plasmonic, ImmunoFunctionalized Matrices—that enhance the sensitivity of Raman and infrared spectroscopy down to the level of single molecules. The proposed solution goes beyond mere detection; it also enables the study of the activity of both established markers of neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyloid-β and Tau protein, as well as new markers like metalloproteinase 10—SIMULTANEOUSLY!! Highly sensitive analytical methods, such as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy, will allow for the detection of single molecules. Through collaboration with partners—the largest diagnostic company in Poland, DIAGNOSTYKA, Monash University, and Texas A&M University—this project extends beyond the boundaries of research laboratories into real-world diagnostics. The project team is developing a prototype diagnostic sensor equipped with a module containing algorithms based on artificial intelligence and multivariate statistical analysis. It will be ready for use in everyday clinical practice for the early and ultrasensitive detection of neurodegenerative diseases, enabling timely implementation of appropriate preventive measures and therapeutic strategies.