Nanoparticle-Assisted liquid biopsy based on Extracellular for Early Diagnosis of Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GB) is the deadliest primary malignant brain tumour, with a median survival of less than one year while current diagnostic methods suffer from significant limitations, leading to misdiagnosis and poor progression monitoring and are accompanied by invasive biopsy. Currently, there are no blood-based biomarkers available as support tool for GB management. A promising approach for such systems are liquid biopsies based on Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) that present a promising and minimally invasive approach. EVs act as versatile communication hubs, transporting a meticulously selected cargos that include various RNA molecules. The specific composition of EVs is influenced by their cell of origin, highlighting their potential as specific biomarkers for aggressive tumours such as GB. The NExGliO project aims for the development of multiplex biosensors for simultaneous detection on array of EVs-based ncRNAs signature specialized for GB diagnosis. This will be achieved via noble metal NPs which are frequently utilized as SERS substrates due to their strong plasmonic properties for ncRNAs detection. Supporting AI technologies will be developed to improve early-stage cancer diagnosis through ncRNA signature identifying algorithms. The NExGliO Staff Exchange brings together internationally recognised experts with complementary expertise from molecular biology, chemistry, nanotechnology, and AI to develop a robust platform for the early diagnosis and monitoring of GB, thus reducing reliance on invasive procedures and improving survival rates. The secondments and local training will synergize expertise from both academic and non-academic partners for a robust collaboration and to generate knowledge transfer between the consortium partners.The direct application of this knowledge, will enhance the potential to introduce innovative products to the market and solidify their position in the relevant sector as well as benefit the careers of the involved personnel.