Advancing sepsis detection: Pioneering magnetic enrichment for earlier diagnosis

• Applicant: Dr.-Ing. Marco Eigenfeld
• Subject Area: Biological Process Engineering ; Medical Microbiology and Mycology, Hygiene, Molecular Infection Biology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 548540458

This project proposes a groundbreaking protein modification technique aimed at significantly improving the detection of sepsis-associated pathogens. By pioneering a novel protein structure that integrates phage receptor-binding domains (RBDs) to enhance specificity and affinity, and combining this with magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for magnetic enrichment, this approach seeks to advance the precision and sensitivity of pathogen detection. The innovation lies in the design of the RBP-H6-SUMO-sfGFP-ChBD protein, characterized by its tri-binding functionality. This is achieved by expressing the RBD at the N-terminal end, ahead of an existing polyhistidine tag, and replacing the Chitin Binding Domain (ChBD) with the Receptor Binding Protein (RBP), thereby enhancing targeting efficiency. Furthermore, the project explores the integration of this custom-designed protein with functionalized magnetic nanoparticles. This combination is expected to revolutionize the precision of targeting and manipulating specific cells or substances by enabling the magnetic concentration of bacteria. Such concentration amplifies the detection process, leading to a denser concentration of cells and DNA, and facilitating an earlier achievement of the Level of Detection (LOD). This is particularly significant for the prompt identification of pathogens, which is critical for the timely initiation of treatment. A notable aspect of the project is its commitment to testing the enhanced separation system under conditions that closely replicate real-world scenarios. This involves experiments with patient serum spiked with a mixture of organisms, introducing a complex challenge due to the presence of various impurities and non-target bacteria. Through this approach, the project aims to make a substantial leap forward in the field of pathogen detection, offering potential for transformative improvements in the management and treatment of sepsis.

• DFG Programme: WBP Fellowship
• International Connection: Austria
• Host: Professor Dr. Sebastian Schwaminger