ASSERT · Development of a nanotechnology-based innovative assay for the diagnosis of allergy to Betalactams

Development of a nanotechnology-based innovative assay for the diagnosis of allergy to Betalactams

Allergy to betalactam antibiotics such as amoxicillin, is a worldwide problem affecting more than 10% people, partly due to high consumption. It is a burden for patients that must take less effective and more expensive second-line antibiotics and must stay longer at the hospital. Moreover, more than 90% of self-reported allergic individuals are not true allergic, carrying the label throughout life. The diagnosis of BL allergy is complex and requires provocation, which is not risk-free, and in vitro like the basophil activation test (BAT) tests show very little sensitivity. The main goal of ASSERT project was to optimize the BAT through (i)understanding basophil activation mechanisms, (ii) better antigen presentation by nanoengineering, and (iii) assay validation to fit in vitro diagnostic standards. The project has been successfully completed, achieving all its goals. We developed nanoparticles of different size and carrying different numbers of amoxicillin molecules. We found that larger nanoparticles with more amoxicillin molecules performed 20 times better than free amoxicillin, suggesting their potential use in allergy testing. The BAT was also improved by adding a bacterial-derived component to the reaction, improving sensitivity from 43% to 67%. Moreover, to identify new biomarkers of basophil activation we developed a basophil isolation method directly from blood, with reduced preparation time while maintaining high cell viability, making it easier to study allergic responses. Importantly, a quality management plan was implemented to fit diagnostic standards. The results of our work have been published in scientific journals and shared at international conferences, social media, and newspapers, to reach a broader audience. Additionally, we participated in public engagement activities, such as The European Researchers Night, where people could meet researchers and learn about our work. Overall, this project has made significant strides in improving allergy detection methods, for a better diagnosis and treatment and a reduction of the costs for the Health Systems. Our efforts not only advance scientific knowledge, but also aim to make allergy testing more accessible and effective for patients in the future. By engaging with the public, we hope to raise awareness of a conscious antibiotic usage and promote interest in scientific research among younger audiences.

Текст от CORDIS, на английски · Данни: CORDIS, © Европейски съюз