Next-Gen Diagnostics: Flexible Multisensor Platform for low cost and rapid Point-of-Care Differentiation of Malaria Parasites or Infectious Diseases

TO-207 • PT 1.2913 • As of 05/2025
Institute of Biological Information Processing
Bioelectronics (IBI-3)

Technology

The new technology is an innovative biosensor platform designed for the electrochemical detection of disease biomarkers, with a particular focus on malaria. At its core, the technology utilizes flexible multi-electrode array (MEA) chips, which are equipped with multiple, independently addressable electrodes. Each electrode or set of electrodes is functionalized with specific aptamers—synthetic, single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules that bind selectively and with high affinity to target biomarkers. The flexible substrate, made from robust polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), allows the sensor to be lightweight, bendable, and highly durable. This design not only supports the simultaneous detection of several malaria biomarkers—such as Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase (PfLDH), Plasmodium vivax lactate dehydrogenase (PvLDH), and histidine-rich protein 2 (HRP-2)—but also enables easy adaptation for point-of-care diagnostic applications. The sensor’s modular structure, combined with the chemical and thermal stability of aptamers, results in a versatile, cost-effective, and scalable diagnostic tool that can be tailored to detect a wide range of disease markers beyond malaria.

Problem addressed

The standard approach for malaria diagnosis relied heavily on rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) based on antibody-antigen interactions. While these tests are widely used, they suffer from several critical limitations. Most notably, conventional RDTs often lack sufficient analytical sensitivity and are unable to reliably distinguish between different malaria parasite species. The antibodies used as receptor molecules in these tests are prone to degradation at elevated temperatures, which is especially problematic in tropical regions where malaria is most prevalent. Furthermore, antibody production is expensive, and the molecules themselves are sensitive to many chemicals and modifications, restricting their practical use and shelf life. Even with the introduction of aptamer-based detection systems, existing platforms have not fully addressed issues related to accuracy, cost, and robustness. There remains a pressing need for diagnostic tools that are not only highly sensitive and specific, but also stable, affordable, and capable of multiplexed detection in challenging environments.

Solution

The new biosensor technology directly addresses these challenges by combining the strengths of flexible multi-electrode arrays with the superior properties of aptamers. Unlike antibodies, aptamers are highly stable under thermal and chemical stress, are less costly to produce, and can be easily modified for enhanced performance. The flexible MEA chip allows for the parallel immobilization of different aptamers on separate electrodes, enabling the simultaneous detection of multiple malaria biomarkers within a single test. This multiplexing capability not only improves diagnostic accuracy—by distinguishing between Plasmodium species—but also streamlines the workflow for healthcare providers. The use of robust polymer substrates ensures durability and adaptability for field use, while the electrochemical detection method offers high sensitivity and the potential for miniaturization. Overall, this technology delivers a diagnostic solution that is more accurate, robust, and cost-effective than existing methods, making it particularly attractive for deployment in resource-limited settings and for commercial scaling.

Benefits and Potential Use

This biosensor platform is ideally suited for a broad range of diagnostic applications, with immediate impact in malaria detection and management. Its ability to simultaneously identify multiple malaria biomarkers makes it a powerful tool for accurate species differentiation, guiding appropriate treatment decisions and improving patient outcomes. The flexible and robust design enables use in point-of-care settings, such as remote clinics, mobile health units, and field hospitals—especially in regions with limited laboratory infrastructure. Beyond malaria, the modular nature of the sensor allows for rapid adaptation to detect other infectious diseases or health conditions by simply changing the aptamer configuration. This opens up significant opportunities for licensees in the diagnostics industry to expand their product portfolios, address emerging health threats, and deliver reliable, user-friendly testing solutions to global markets. The technology’s scalability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility make it an attractive platform for both established companies and innovative startups seeking to enhance their competitive edge in the growing field of biosensor diagnostics.

Development Status and Next Steps

Currently funded through VIP+ to further develop the technology we aim to move from TRL 4 to TRL6 in the next two years. We are looking for industrial partners and investors.

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