SiMBiT · Single molecule bio-electronic smart system array for clinical testing

Digitizing biomarkers analysis by quantifying them at the single-molecule level is the new frontier for advancing the science of precision health. The SiMBiT project will develop a bio-electronic smart system leveraging on an existing lab-based proof-of-concept that can perform single-molecule detection of both proteins and DNA bio-markers. Specifically, the SiMBiT activities will develop the lab-based device into a cost-effective portable multiplexing array prototype that integrates, with a modular approach, novel materials and standard components/interfaces. The SiMBiT platform exhibits enhanced sensing capabilities: specificity towards both genomic and protein markers along with single-molecule detection limits and time-to-results within two hours. This makes the SiMBiT prototype the world best performing bio-electronic sensing system ever. SiMBiT will reach these ambitious goals with a multidisciplinary research effort involving device-physicists, analytical-chemists, bio-chemists, clinicians, electronic- and system-engineers. The platform is also single-use and cost-effective and can work in low-resource settings. The SiMBiT field-effect sensing system will be fabricated by means of future mass-manufacturable, large-area compatible, scalable techniques such as printing and other direct-writing processes. 3D printing of a module is also foreseen. The SiMBiT prototype will demonstrate, for first time, a matrix of up to 96 bio-electronic sensors and a Si IC chip for the processing of all data coming from the matrix, multiplexing single-molecule detection. As the Si IC pins are limited the chip area is reduced and its cost minimized, enabling a single-use assay plate. SiMBiT will apply the multiplexing single molecule technology to the early detection of human pancreatic neoplasms in a well-defined clinical context, performing simultaneous analysis of genomic and protein markers with a minimal sample volume, reduced costs and reduced time-to-results.