The Technology
This single-molecule sensing technology enables high-resolution identification and quantification of intact proteins using ultra-thin silicon nanochannels. Unlike conventional methods that rely on protein fragmentation or antibody-based capture, this novel technology utilizes chemo-selective dual-color labeling and electrophoretic separation to produce protein-specific dynamic trajectories, that are identified using a multiparameter Machine Learning (ML) toolbox.
A custom single-molecule imaging system captures real-time, multi-dimensional data on each protein’s position, velocity, and fluorescence intensity in two channels. This allows precise identification of isoforms and proteoforms—even in complex fluids like human serum—without the need for amplification or enrichment. The result is a rapid, non-destructive, and highly multiplexed protein analysis method.
The technology has been applied to distinguish proteoform variations in Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), as well, as other real-life biosamples. By capturing subtle proteoform differences in serum, it enables early detection and tracking of disease progression, offering new capabilities for precision diagnostics and therapeutic monitoring.
Advantages
- Single-molecule resolution without protein fragmentation
- Antibody-free quantification, reducing bias and enhancing multiplexing
- Multiparameter data extraction from single runs for multiplexed analysis
- Fast, high throughput, real-time analysis in picoliter-scale sample volumes
- Discriminates isoforms and proteoforms at picomolar concentrations, even from liquid biopsies
- Scalable and multiplexed platform, based on standard silicon fabrication processes
Applications and Opportunities
- Clinical diagnostics: Detection and monitoring of diseases like AMD, cancer, and infections in liquid biopsies
- Pharma and biotech R&D: Drug-response profiling and biomarker discovery
- Advanced proteomics: High-resolution analysis of full-length proteins
- Point-of-care potential: Integration into miniaturized diagnostic systems
Business Development Contacts