Immunotoxicity Monitoring Method for Unknown Noxious Exposures (IMMUNE)

In this proposal we describe the development of a technology (nanoCyl) that can assay multiple protein biomarkers in small sample volume physiological fluids. It offers the potential for a novel immune assessment tool that can be deployed in the field for the rapid assessment of exposure of troops to a wide range of toxic agents. Proof of concept for the technology will be provided through the measurement of cytokine/chemokine expression profiles that characterize the immune system response to respiratory tract pathogens, through collaboration with Dr. Wayne Ensign of the Naval Health Research Center. A model profiling system will be demonstrated that will assay TNF-alpha and IL-1beta with an analyte detection sensitivity of < 10 pg/ml and a coefficient of variation of < 20%. This detection sensitivity is consistent with the changes in TNF-alpha and IL-1beta levels secreted into sputum. A subsequent Phase II project would involve the development of a prototype system suitable for deployment in the field.