Early Urine-based Cancer Risk Assessment via SaccharomYces Cerevisiae

Overview

The EUCRASYC project was designed to develop innovative technologies for biomarker detection, combining next-generation biosensors with advanced microscopy solutions.

Objectives

The research focused on enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of detection systems, particularly through the integration of biological sensors and cutting-edge imaging technologies. The project explored the use of olfactory receptors, recombinant GPCR-based systems, and optical detection methods to create a highly effective and accessible biosensor.

Key Outcomes

The project led to several technological innovations, most notably the development of iFLUOR — a compact, versatile platform that integrates wide-field microscopy and microfluidics into a single device.

iFLUOR represents a significant breakthrough in microscopy for biological research and diagnostics. With its wide field of view (10 mm × 10 mm without stitching) and integrated microfluidic system, it enables high-efficiency experimentation in a simple, intuitive format. Special attention was given to accessibility and cost-effectiveness, making iFLUOR an ideal tool for research labs and diagnostic applications. The platform is currently being commercialized, opening new opportunities for monitoring and analyzing biological samples in a variety of scientific and industrial settings.

Financial Support

On March 24, 2023, D-Tails (Lead Applicant) and IIT – Rome branch (Co-Applicant) submitted the funding application A0613-2023-077959 under the Public Call for Competitive Repositioning in R&D (Regione Lazio). The project received a positive response and was awarded a subsidized grant totaling €783,115.50.

This funding — dedicated to the EUCRASYC project for the development of a lateral flow diagnostic kit for breast and prostate cancer — will be made available in stages, starting in the first half of 2024.

This disclosure is provided in accordance with Article 1, paragraph 125-quinquies of Law No. 124 dated August 4, 2017 (as amended by Decree Law No. 34 of April 30 and its conversion into Law No. 58 of June 28, 2019).

Learn more at the European Commission website: https://europa.eu/