Grant: Proof of Principle Program - Phase II

In partnership with Aquila Diagnostics Systems, Inc, we have developed a new diagnostic system called the Accutas, which can test for infectious diseases at the point-of-care. The key innovation and intellectual property is based on 'hydrogel PCR' which enables advanced DNA testing to detect a pathogen in a patient sample, without the need for a lab. The test components are contained within a simple slab of gel in a small, disposable chip. A blood sample is added to the chip and inserted into a portable instrument, with a result in about an hour. The simplicity and low cost of the technology make it ideal for the diagnosis of infectious diseases in low-resource settings where access to diagnostics is limited. Here we will further refine the Accutas System for use in remote areas of Africa to test children for malaria, a parasitic infection that is deadly if left undiagnosed. Specific improvements through bioengineering will make the system more user-friendly and adapted to the basic conditions of an African clinic. We will further expand the testing available on each chip to determine whether a child suffers from malaria or a bacterial infection that can cause pneumonia. As a first field demonstration of the technology, we will pilot the system in a clinic in Uganda, marking a significant step along the path toward commercialization.