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2018
Journal Article
Titel
PoCOsteo: Personalized fracture risk prediction via point-of-care device
Titel Supplements
Abstract
Abstract
Osteoporosis and associated fractures are a major burden for individuals and society. Risk prediction is therefore highly warranted, as no simple, precise or sensitive tools for identification of individuals at risk of osteoporosis are currently available, mainly due to the multifactorial causes of osteoporosis including clinical, lifestyle and genetic factors. Early stage and easily accessible identification of high-risk individuals who might best benefit from prophylaxis should therefore include various technologies such as molecular medicine, nanobiotechnology, microfluidics, and biochemistry. The PoCOsteo project, funded by the European Commission in the framework of H2020-NMBP-X-KET-2017 (Grant Agreement number 767325), integrates proteomics and genomics technology into the development of a functional point of care (PoC) microfluidic device for osteoporosis risk detection. This device is aimed to be used by physicians to improve the prediction of potential fractures and to provide timely personalized care for affected individuals. In addition, monitoring of the treatment processes via this in-office test should provide results in real-time during consultation, thus reducing the low-compliance-rate, commonly reported in osteoporotic patients more efficiently and at lower costs. The design of this PoC tool will limit the amount of both expensive reagents and complex procedures and blood volume needed for the tests and should therefore be suitable also in countries with lack of reimbursement and lower medical care standards. The overall objective of the currently proposed PoCOsteo project therefore is the development, clinical validation and preparation for commercialization of a PoC tool for bone disease (i.e. osteoporosis) prevention, detection and treatment with academic/research partners from 5 countries (Gent University, University Rovira I Virgili, Fraunhofer IMM, Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Medical University of Graz) and 3 SME's (Labman, MicroLIQUID and Fundico) with a detailed project plan.
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