FluoResYst

Time-resolved fluorescence detection for integrated multiparameter analysis of multi-resistance in tuberculosis

Multi-resistance has become a significant health problem in the fight against infectious diseases. The overall goal of this project is to develop a rapid detection system for multi-resistance using the example of tuberculosis infection.

Objectives

In the technological part, a photonic platform is being researched that should enable tuberculosis diagnostics outside of a laboratory environment through a high degree of integration. The principle of the detection platform is based on time-resolved fluorescence measurement, with which complex optics and wavelength filters can be dispensed. This is made possible by the use of ps lasers and single-photon avalanche diode arrays (SPAD), whose switching times are optimized for the detection of short-lived fluorochromes. The platform will also be suitable for other multi-parameter analyses of diagnostics, biotechnology and bio-economy. The molecular-biological-biochemical approach consists of a novel detection method that uses a fluorescence quenching effect to literally illuminate the multi-resistance genes by means of a fluorochrome-binding antibody.

Innovation and perspectives

In particular, the method will improve tuberculosis diagnostics and the determination of multi-resistance and contribute to the containment of the disease through accelerated diagnostics on site. However, it is also quickly adaptable for other multi-resistance detections, such as the acute problem of infections in clinical environments which are often accompanied by signs of resistance. The combination of two innovations: the photonic integration of time-resolved fluorescence measurement for short-lived fluorochromes and the biochemical fluorescence quenching antibody assay: are expected to lead to a new detection technology with which complex analyses, as yet inaccessible, may become greatly simplified and thus widely accessible.

Project partners

• Lionex GmbH, Braunschweig (Coordinator)
• IMMS GmbH, Ilmenau
• iC-Haus GmbH, Bodenheim
• X-FAB Global Services GmbH, Erfurt
• DITABIS Digital Biomedical Imaging Systems AG, Pforzheim
• Fraunhofer-Institut für Zelltherapie und Immunologie (IZI), Potsdam
• Microfluidic ChipShop GmbH, Jena
• Institut für Molekulare Diagnostik und Bioanalytik (IMDB) gGmbH, Hennigsdorf

Project coordination: Lionex GmbH, Prof. Dr. Mahavir Singh: info@lionex.de

FluoResYst is supported by the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF).