(OM-TTR) Development of a sensor for biomarkers of transthyretin amyloidosis

At a glance

What is OM-TTR about?

Various diseases are known to be caused by accumulation of protein amyloid deposits in multiple sites in the body. This protein aggregation can lead to well-known conditions such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR). There is an urgent need for effective ways to control or treat these conditions. One of the key factors in slowing the progression of amyloid diseases is early diagnosis. Current diagnostic methods for ATTR disease can only detect the final accumulation of the amyloid cascade, thus diagnosis only at the late stage of the disease.

This work aims to develop a novel, fast, and cost-effective diagnostic device for the measurement and detection of relevant protein monomers in  plasma. The ability to identify these protein monomers will result in detection of amyloid accumulation in its early stages. The proposed device will utilize microfluidics and optical detection capabilities for selective capture and quantification of the protein monomers.

What critical challenges is OM-TTR addressing?

Early diagnosis of ATTR is crucial for controlling the progression of this disease. Research shows that less stable Transthyretin (TTR) homotetramers dissociate into non-native monomers, which rapidly self-assemble into oligomers and amyloid fibrils. Monitoring the initial steps, particularly monomeric TTR levels in plasma, is key for early and accurate diagnosis. Current techniques focus on detecting protein aggregates, which require invasive tissue biopsies. This project aims to develop a technology for early disease diagnosis by focusing on the measurement of the relevant monomers in plasma, and thus eliminating
the need for a biopsy. This technology could also provide a means of evaluating novel treatment strategies and therapeutic candidates.

How will OM-TTR explore early diagnosis of ATTR?

Early diagnosis of ATTR is crucial for controlling the progression of this disease. Research shows that less stable Transthyretin (TTR) homotetramers dissociate into non-native monomers, which rapidly self-assemble into oligomers and amyloid fibrils. Monitoring the initial steps, particularly monomeric TTR levels in plasma, is key for early and accurate diagnosis. Current techniques focus on detecting protein aggregates, which require invasive tissue biopsies. This project aims to develop a technology for early disease diagnosis by focusing on the measurement of the relevant monomers in plasma, and thus eliminating
the need for a biopsy. This technology could also provide a means of evaluating novel treatment strategies and therapeutic
candidates.

How is OM-TTR expected to impact diagnostic techniques?

To the best of our knowledge, current diagnostic techniques for ATTR do not detect the monomeric transthyretin, which is the earliest stage of the protein aggregation and accumulation. This project represents the first attempt to achieve this goal and could lead to faster, better, and more affordable diagnostic testing for the disease. In addition to diagnostic purposes, this device has the potential to provide precise tracking of disease progression and offer the option to adjust of treatment strategies.