Aptamer Array Microsampler for Detection of Cancer Markers

"There is an acute need to rapidly detect cancer markers and help diagnose cancer at the earliest stage possible. The objective of this Phase I proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing a simple point-of-care diagnostic tool for the detectionof cancer markers. Early diagnosis of prostate, ovarian, breast and other cancers will allow the physician to intervene earlier in the cancer progression, with greatly improved outcomes. Rapid monitoring of cancer markers will also allow evaluation of acancer patient's response to therapy and to check for recurrence or metastatic spread. We propose a revolutionary new device for the detection of cancer markers via the synergy of two emerging technologies, the silicon microsampler that was pioneered atKumetrix for painless blood sampling combined with rapidly developing aptamer technology. The proposed diagnostic device will enable the user to quickly and accurately identify cancer markers. Early identification of cancer will lead to immediatetreatment and thus a much greater chance of recovery. This small device will painlessly draw a blood sample and quickly determine the presence of cancer markers. Identification of cancer at a very early stage will permit timely intervention, thus greatlyenhancing recovery rates. This device has applications for both military and civilian care."