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Validation and Comparitive Multi-Omics Benchmarking of Fluid-Derived Volatilomics Biomarkers for the Prevention and Early detection of Schizophrenia

Project description

Volatile biomarkers for schizophrenia management

Schizophrenia affects approximately 1 % of the global population, with a misdiagnosis rate ranging from 23 % to 40 %. The EU-funded VOLABIOS project aims to enhance schizophrenia management via the detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in breath, urine, blood and skin as non-invasive biomarkers for early diagnosis. The project will conduct clinical studies involving subjects across six centres and a blind validation study with at-risk individuals. By combining VOC analysis with genomics, proteomics and transcriptomics and supported by a biobank of 4 000 samples and a dataset of 9 million records, the project seeks to uncover factors contributing to schizophrenia and improve diagnostic accuracy. Ultimately, VOLABIOS aims to pave the way for earlier diagnoses and better patient care.

Objective

Schizophrenia (SZ) impacts around 1% of the global population, posing diagnostic challenges that lead to a misdiagnosis rate of 23-40%. The need for reliable biomarkers is crucial to improve early detection and treatment outcomes. VOLABIOS aims to revolutionize SZ management by harnessing innovative real-time and portable spectrograph technology to validate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as non-invasive and cost-effective biomarkers detectable during the early stages of the disease. This entails extensive data analysis, prospective clinical studies involving 3,692 subjects across six centres, and a blind validation study with 1,000 subjects, focusing on longitudinal monitoring of at-risk individuals to identify early SZ transition. To further substantiate the efficacy of VOCs and gain profound insights, VOLABIOS will integrate VOC analysis with genomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics. This integration will be supported by a biobank comprising approximately 4,000 samples and a dataset consisting of 9 million records. By considering external and personal risk factors as well as biological responses, VOLABIOS aims to unravel intricate correlations that contribute to SZ development. This comprehensive approach will enhance prediction accuracy, facilitate early detection, and improve management strategies. Furthermore, VOLABIOS plans to explore the real-time effects of validated VOCs through controlled in-vivo experiments using animal models, providing valuable information about associated cellular and molecular pathways. VOLABIOS's endeavours to validate and establish EU-wide SZ diagnosis protocols are set to significantly enhance patient care and healthcare efficiency, marking a substantial step forward in addressing the complexities surrounding SZ.

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Coordinator

TECHNION - ISRAEL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Net EU contribution
€ 1 304 841,25
Address
SENATE BUILDING TECHNION CITY
32000 Haifa
Israel

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Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data

Participants (19)