Grant: Project Grant

Atherosclerosis is the progressive narrowing of blood vessels, which occurs due to the formation of plaque (an accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and other blood products). This buildup of plaque impedes the blood supply of many vital organs and body parts, including the lower limbs - formally known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Unfortunately, the majority of patients with PAD (>60%) do not experience any symptoms prior to developing advanced limb threatening ischemia. This results in devastatingly high rates of amputation and mortality, in addition to posing a significant burden on the Canadian healthcare system. Despite promising advances in clinical investigations, no commercially approved blood test for PAD exists in the market. However, after extensive research, our team has discovered, validated, and patented a novel blood-based biomarker for PAD. Using our robust research findings, we were able to collaborate with a strategic business partner to develop the first, point-of-care blood screening test for PAD - known as 'Artery Alert'. In this proposal, we want to investigate the clinical utility of Artery Alert in identifying patients with PAD. Through timely diagnosis and treatment with Artery Alert, physicians can help prevent PAD-relate complications in patients (e.g. amputations, death etc.), while enabling substantial savings to healthcare systems globally.