Monitor for Multiple Biomarkers for Detection of Alcohol Consumption

DESCRIPTION provided by applicant We propose to develop a new type of monitor to directly and simultaneously identify multiple biomarker metabolites in persons suspected of having been exposed to alcohol The technology we plan to utilize is surface enhanced Raman scattering SERS based on a well known inelastic laser light scattering analytical technique for precise lab identification of organic compounds Biomarker detectors and biomarker based tests must be sensitive reproducible affordable transportable reliable and the samples employed in the detectors must be easy to obtain from sources on site The ideal detection device in both cases is one that is small portable easy to use and capable of rapid analysis of multiple biomarkers in a clinical setting with a minimum of false positives and false negatives to avoid wasting resources and missing actual exposure problems By detecting the presence of the alcohol biomarkers promptly and at emerging concentrations the alcohol threat to tissue and internal organs may be identified early in the exposure cycle expanding treatment options in the population at risk The proposed research program seeks to utilize SERS spectroscopy for rapid at site blood and urine analysis for multiple biomarkers in a single field deployable device bringing the power of the Raman technique in a practical cost effective configuration to at site clinical analysis PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE The proposed research program seeks to utilize vibrational spectroscopy for rapid at site blood and urine analysis for multiple alcohol biomarkers in a practical cost effective monitor suitable for at site clinical analysis By detecting the presenceof the alcohol biomarkers promptly and at emerging concentrations the alcohol threat to tissue and internal organs may be identified early in the exposure cycle expanding treatment options in the population at risk