Development of rapid analysis devices for PSA monitoring, using selective biomimetic polymers (RADEs-MIP-PSA) aiming to contribute to a better diagnosis of prostate cancer.

• Grant number: 24/11784-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: April 30, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Analytical Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Maria Del Pilar Taboada Sotomayor
• Grantee: Paula Mantovani dos Santos
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The present project aims to develop lateral flow devices for the determination and monitoring of PSA (KLK3). Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) will be used to replace biological systems, being essential in the identification and pre-concentration of various molecules, providing greater selectivity. MIPs are essential in the selective identification of several molecules, and have been applied in immunoassays and biomimetic immunosensors, representing a promising alternative. To determine PSA, lateral flow devices will be developed with an emphasis on speed, high selectivity, stability, low cost and ease of handling. Inspired by Point of Care tests (POCT), these assays will use nitrocellulose strips modified with MIP polymerized by RAFT, replacing PSA-specific antibodies. Given the complexity of synthesizing selective polymers for macromolecules, in silico data previously obtained by the group will be used to obtain a truly selective material. Analysis of samples, such as synthetic urine, serum and sperm, as well as extracts from culture media or lysates of normal (PNT-2) and tumor (LNCaP, PC-3, DU145) prostate cell lines, will be essential to verify the project viability. It is noteworthy that the project can be conducted without the participation of patients, using only human tumor cell lines, without compromising the results, considering the growth of this area of research. The innovative technological potential of the project justifies the investment, allowing the training of high-quality human resources. From the synthesis of materials to evaluation in tumor cells, several areas of knowledge will be explored, providing the basis for granting this proposal.