APTALUNG

R&D Projects

Lung cancer diagnostics based on aptamer technology

LIQUID BIOPSY NEW MARKERS

The Tas1R3 receptor (taste receptor type 1 member 3) is a membrane protein that belongs to the family of G protein-coupled receptors. Recent studies have identified expression of this receptor in circulating tumour cells, and there is evidence that Tas1R3 expression levels may be very useful as a biomarker in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), providing significant information on the stage, prognosis, and treatment options.

The AptaLung project will develop applications of the Tas1R3 receptor as a diagnostic biomarker. To this end, the aim is to implement two products that improve the management of NSCLC patients for clinical use.

2

products focused on lung cancer diagnostics

The Tas1R3 protein can provide significant information on the stage, prognosis, and treatment options for cancer patients.

The first product is a diagnostic system based on the Enzyme Linked Oligonucleotide Assay (ELONA) technique, capable of detecting circulating tumour cells (CTCs) in blood through their membrane receptor Tas1R3.

The second product involves the use of aptamers in histochemistry for the detection of the marker in tumour tissue samples obtained through biopsies.

To achieve the objectives

Expediente: RTC-2017-6597-1 2018-2020

In order to successfully achieve the project’s objectives, a consortium has been formed between Atrys, leader of the project, the Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda University Hospital (FIBPH), and the Technological Centre Leitat.

This project has been funded by the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities within the CHALLENGES-COLLABORATION Sub-programme, 2017 Call. The project is co-funded by the European Union with the aim of promoting technological development, innovation, and quality research.