AKI-sense – continuous biosensor for acute kidney injury
Authors: Caterina Cattabriga, Danail Tsanov, Vinaya Tennakoon, Pelin Akca, Xavier Garcia, Marisa Paiva Silva, Janine Andrade Ferro, Danila Bren, Julia Paredes de Isla, Alex Faloppa, Hanna Lücking and Ken Heng Hian (Biosensing Team Twente). Co-authors: Diana Andreoli and Pep Canyelles Pericàs. Sponsors: MESA+ Institute, TechMed Centre
Abstract
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) affects over 13 million people worldwide annually, and its incidence is rising. The symptoms vary from slight backache to reduced urine output, and it can lead to complete kidney failure. This medical condition poses significant challenges in early detection and treatment. The detection of AKI is complex, as it relies on the frequency at which tests are performed. Especially in hospital settings, the kidney function is evaluated in terms of urine production, meaning that the detection of kidney failure would happen only in later stages, when advanced symptoms are present and the patient has been hospitalized. We present a concept for an aptamer-based electrochemical biosensor that aims at aiding in the detection process, by performing a continuous monitoring of the kidney activity, in terms of creatinine concentration in blood serum.The technology developed uses aptamers, short singlestranded DNA or RNA molecules, which specifically allow for continuity in measurement, due to their ability to reverse the binding to the target molecule. The electrochemical transduction is performed with the use of Square Wave Voltammetry (SWV). This project aims to make significant strides in early identification and management of AKI, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with this critical condition, utilizing the results of an ongoing market research. The device development takes place in the SensUs framework, an annual competition held at and organized by the University of Eindhoven, where Teams from all over the world present and put their device to a live test.