In terms of infection diagnostics, PEST-BIN is going beyond state-of-the-art by functionalizing graphene-based sensors with receptors specifically designed to capture biomarkers from the bacterial surface that we have detect by "surface shaving" proteomics. Our detection kits will be developed as miniaturized chips, containing basically carbon (graphene) and biodegradable polymers (no gold electrodes or any heavy metals). They can be used as “plug-and-play” disposable chips via a flash-memory micro-SD jack, so no heavy machinery for readouts is required. Therefore, their environmental footprint is close to zero. We have identified the key biomarkers needed for detection of several important pathogens, and accomplished the key milestones of chip design and receptor synthesis. We delivered the promised technology, protected the IP rights, and actually started producing the diagnostic chips in the PEST-BIN spin out LayerLogic AB.
Regarding the understanding of mechanisms of infection, and identification of possible new drug targets, PEST-BIN has delivered new benchmarks on how such studies should be performed, and their results analyzed. In terms of experimental design, we established pipelines for analysis of pathogens' proteome dynamics in contact with human cell lines, in developing biofilms, etc. An even bigger step beyond state of the art came in terms of data analysis, where we integrated many datasets and pin-pointed for emergent properties during the dynamic infection process. Instrumental to this success was the early application of machine learning/AI in data analysis, as well as the use of advanced methods for evolutionary analyses.
In terms of killing infectious biofilms, PEST-BIN strategy relied on leveraging the success one of EU leaders in developing new antibiotics – Naicons, with the development of antibacterial properties of nanomaterials such as graphene and metallic nanoparticles. We have engineered various hydrogel/polymer coatings involving "green" nanoparticles and antibacterial graphene coatings. Such coatings, when loaded with antibacterial molecules from Naicons, become a very effective “nano-weapon” against bacterial biofilms.
Activities pursued within PEST-BIN have allowed some of our beneficiaries to create new alliances and apply for additional research funding together. Overall, PEST-BIN has delivered as promised in terms of strenghtening the European research & innovation environment.
