In the course on my main ERC AdG grant, we have developed methods and assays for highly sensitive and specific multiplex analysis of protein biomarkers in plasma samples. The assays are based on dual recognition of the protein biomarker by two antibodies resulting in the formation of a DNA reporter sequence. An effective and commercially interesting assay is dependent on rapid, cheap and exact readout of the DNA reporter sequences. Currently it is performed using real time PCR but in the current PoC project DigiRead we have explored a novel readout method based on our recent invention SuperRCA. During the project, we have developed technical aspects of this readout method and performed and extensive market analysis comparing SuperRCA with competing technologies including PCR and DNA sequencing. The technical development and market analysis has been instrumental in positioning the novel readout technology and enabled strategic descicions how this technology can be further explored and implemented by our spin out company that currently commercializes the protein biomarker assays. The results of the DigiRead project will allow the protein biomarker assays to be more broadly used for a large range of biomarker screening purposes both in terms of sample throughput and multiplexing.
