Projects

Cancer accounts for nearly one quarter of deaths in the developed world, exceeded only by heart diseases..Cervical cancer and its associated virus - Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) – is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. One of the key strategies in cancer prevention is early diagnosis through cancer screening programs In this project, we develop an automated real-time analysis biochip for the detection of several HPV sub-types in a sample. The multi-parameter diagnostic assay is a combination of PCR and simultaneous real-time microarray detection within a closed system. The disposable cartridge will be processed by a small integrated low cost thermocycler and reader system which can perform the diagnostic test automatically. The detection is based on the TIRF principle (TIRF = total internal reflection fluorescence), by which the sensitivity of the on-line detection can be improved and quantitative results can be achieved. The cartridge contains a printed microarray and optical guidance to enable the TIRF method. As the reaction volume is less than 10 µl the need of reagents is reduced compared to standard laboratory analyses. Besides the filling of the sample no further “hands-on” steps are required, reducing the risk of operating errors and contaminations. The novel real-time detetction approach is applicable to a large variety of diagnostic markers and PCR-based tests. This approach enables the use of a single generic microarray for multiple purposes. The combination of device, cartridge and assay enables a versatile platform for a rapid and quantitative detection of pathogens or other bio-markers. The interdisciplinary consortium includes four research institutes and three industrial companies, who have together extensive experience in all relevant fields ranging from HPV diagnostics using PCR based assays to polymer micro fabrication techniques.