Electrochemical Biosensing of Neurofilaments

Project Description

Our research lab, in Boston University Photonics Center’s Business Innovation Center, is focused on the development of new diagnostic tests to support personalized therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from neurological conditions. Given the increasingly decentralized nature of healthcare and clinical trials, in part accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a need for easy-to-use, cost-effective remote monitoring tools in near-patient settings. To address this unmet need, we are focused on developing an electrochemical-based microfluidic platform to bridge the gap between multiple-biomarker strategies—that are more optimistic with complex, multifactorial diseases/conditions like Multiple Sclerosis—and their implementation as a part of routine clinical care/trials. Our platform—based on novel electrochemical sensing technology developed at Harvard University’s Wyss Institute—selectively detects protein biomarkers captured by antibodies that are coupled to a nano-composite coating on the electrode surface. The goal of this project will be to characterize binding interactions on the surface of a biosensor designed to detect neurofilament protein biomarkers for Multiple Sclerosis. Researchers working on this project will learn about the application of protein biomarkers for neurological conditions and some of the interdisciplinary challenges associated with developing near-patient diagnostics.

Mentors

Daniel Lookadoo

Project Timeline

Week 1: Introduction and general lab training
Week 2: Characterize the biosensor surface
Week 3: Optimize response & extend methodology
Week 4: Make conclusions and report results
Week 5: Prepare and present findings