Research Project: „SPIN(off)MIND nanoStructurised, Plasmonic, ImmuNofunctionalised Matrices (arrays) for early and ultrasensItive Detection of Neurodegenerative Diseases”, Agreement no. FENG.02.02-IP.05-0124/24 implemented under Priority 2 of the EUROPEAN FUNDS FOR SMART ECONOMY Programme (EFSE 2021-2027), Measure 2.2 FIRST TEAM of the Foundation for Polish Science.
Project value: 3 995 980,00 PLN
Amount of European Funds contribution: 3 995 980,00 PLN
We all want to live long lives – to 80, 85 years or even longer. But with age comes an increased risk of diseases that affect our brains. It is estimated that half of the people who reach this age will develop neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. The other half will have to face the challenge of caring for loved ones affected by these conditions.
Neurodegenerative diseases are a challenge for society as a whole. Unfortunately, today we still don’t know how to cure them. Why? Because most therapies have been tested only once the disease is already developed, with symptoms like memory loss or cognitive decline. And by then, it’s far too late — the processes that damage nerve cells begin 15–20 years earlier!
The project involves the creation of ultra-sensitive sensors — Nano-Structured, Plasmonic, Immuno-Functionalized Arrays that enhance the sensitivity of Raman and infrared spectroscopy, down to the level of single molecules.
The proposed solution is not just about detection, but also about analyzing the activity of both established neurodegenerative disease biomarkers — such as amyloid-beta and Tau protein — and novel markers like metalloproteinase 10. Simultaneously!
Highly sensitive analytical methods like surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy will enable the detection of single molecules.
In collaboration with our partners — the largest diagnostic company in Poland, DIAGNOSTYKA, as well as Monash University and Texas A&M University — this project goes beyond the lab and into real-world diagnostics.
The project team is developing a prototype diagnostic sensor equipped with a module based on artificial intelligence algorithms and multidimensional statistical analysis, ready for use in everyday clinical practice. Its goal: early and ultra-sensitive detection of neurodegenerative diseases, allowing timely implementation of preventive measures and therapeutic strategies.