Field Portable Device for Brain Injury Diagnosis

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause neuronal hyperactivity, and subsequent neuronal loss leading to cognitive deficits, and impaired memory, judgment, and perception. When TBI occurs, a cascade of biomolecular events take place, and some biomolecules present in the brain are released into circulation. These biomolecules released into the blood are potential biomarkers of TBI. This proposal describes the development of a field-usable, handheld, diagnostic device to quantitatively measure multiple biomarkers to diagnose TBI. In the proposed test format, sample is applied on the test strip, and the biomarkers present in the sample will interact with the reagents on the test strip resulting in quantifiable signals. These signals are measured using a handheld, portable optical reader. In Phase I, we will develop the multiplexed test strips, and evaluate their suitability for TBI diagnosis. In Phase II, we will optimize the test strips and validate the test strips. The successful completion of the objectives of this project will result in a device suitable for use by military personnel in battlefield conditions to rapidly diagnose TBI. The proposed diagnostic device will be especially valuable in combat operations. It could potentially save lives, reduce recovery time, and improve the effectiveness of brain injury treatment.