Project description
New probe design with single-molecule analysis
Therapeutics, super-resolution microscopy, and biochemical assays rely on affinity probes for various applications, all of which require specific binding kinetics that vary depending on the application. Unfortunately, current development methods cannot specify binding kinetics during the design process. This limitation has hindered discoveries and significantly reduced the potential of these technologies. The ERC-funded SPARXS project aims to develop a groundbreaking solution: the single-molecule parallel analysis for rapid exploration of sequence space (SPARXS). This solution will use single-molecule observations and high-throughput sequencing to provide crucial data, enabling the tailored design of probes with optimised binding kinetics.
Objective
The binding kinetics of an affinity probethe speed and duration with which it attaches to a target moleculemust be precisely tuned for numerous applications in therapeutics, super-resolution microscopy, and biochemical assays. The current methods of development lack the capability to specify these binding kinetics during probe design, resulting in the potential for effective drugs and relevant biological properties to remain undiscovered.
Here, I introduce a game-changing solution: Single-molecule Parallel Analysis for Rapid eXploration of Sequence space (SPARXS). SPARXS harnesses the power of single-molecule observations and subsequent high-throughput sequencing to simultaneously reveal the binding kinetics and sequences of millions of aptamers (affinity probes composed of nucleic acids). This process enables the tailored design of probes with the desired binding behavior for various applications.
This technology originated from my ERC Consolidator Grant project as a research tool, and its application can fulfill multiple practical demands. As SPARXS provides a particularly excellent fit for aptamer development, I have decided to enhance the platform with aptamer-specific features. Furthermore, I will conduct market research to understand the specific demands of users seeking defined-kinetic probes, which will facilitate commercialization of SPARXS-based aptamer design upon completion of the project.
In summary, SPARXS signifies a disruptive advancement in aptamer development and will revolutionize affinity probe design across the biotech industry. With minimal adaptations to the core technology, I anticipate a high potential for swift commercialization as a dedicated development platform.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2023-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
2628 CN DELFT
Netherlands
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.