Design and development of microfluidic analytical devices for on-hand Biomarkers monitoring

The aim of the proposed project is to design, develop and study disposable devices for in the moment analysis of chemical and biochemical parameters in complex samples, namely non-invasive biological fluids. The idea is to provide a fast, robust quantification alternative, displaying an immediate response for potential point-of-care application by untrained personnel. The objective is to explore the concepts of paper-based analytical devices (PADs) and of polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) in order to develop an in-hand and real-time quantification of potential biomarkers, namely metal ions, nitrogen-based compounds and iodide. The biological chemistry of these biomarkers is rather complex, and they can be powerful health status indicators. So, I propose to establish an innovative research line based on microfluidic analytical devices devoted to design and develop disposable devices for biomarkers assessment as inexpensive, fast, and effective diagnosis methods. The combination of PADs and PIMs comprehends exploiting the functionalization of solid materials for selectivity enhancement and interferences minimization. The chosen biomarkers are known for being involved in the balance needed for a healthy wellbeing. This means they are essential at specific amounts, so their precise quantification is crucial, over a presence/absence testing. Therefore, effective, reliable analytical methods are essential, and an original research line dedicated to its development indispensable. Among the several potential biomarkers, the project will focus in metal ions namely the quantification of calcium, magnesium and iron, along with urea, creatinine and iodide as non-metal biomarkers. Non-invasive biological fluids, namely saliva and urine, are ideal target samples for the proposed devices, due to the minimal amount required and easiness of disposable.

Furthermore, with this project, a research line on microfluidics devices for analytical, bioanalytical and enzymatic assays to attain “on-hand” diagnosis is to be established.

The successful outcome will be encouraging to follow up into other complex matrices, namely food (and beverages) and environmental samples (plants, soils). It is also expected to involve master and PhD students, as well as undergraduates, from the UCP, as detailed in the plan and methods, in order to establish a comprehensive work group.

2030 Agenda: ODS 3; ODS 10; European health systems face growing challenges as population is ageing leading growing pressure on the healthcare sector. The increasing costs of innovative technologies generate disparities in access to healthcare. This project intends to develop real-time diagnostic devices to non-invasive screening, using the biological fluids saliva/urine. Rapid assessment of parameters responsible for pathologies could be a huge advantage over traditional methods, as can be used by untrained personnel, slashing costs and yielding real-time results. In addition, considering the fragile health system in the developing countries, it could be a value-added to carry out onsite, promoting sustainable global healthcare.