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Design and Development of Aptamer–Gold Nanoparticle Based Colorimetric Assays for In-the-field Applications
Published on: June 23, 2016
Air Force Research Laboratory Integrated Omics Research
Nicholas J DelRaso1, Victor T Chan1, Camilla A Mauzy1
1Air Force Research Laboratory, 711 Human Performance Wing, Human Effectiveness Directorate, Bioeffects Division, Molecular Bioeffects Branch (RHDJ), Building 837, 2729 R Street, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-5707.
Abstract:
Integrated Omics research capabilities within the Air Force Research Laboratory began in 2003 with the initiation of a Defense Technology Objective project aimed to identify biomarkers of toxicity occurring within the warfighter as a preclinical indicator. Current methods for determining toxic exposures are not responsive enough or created available for deployment to prevent serious health effects. Using Integrated Omics (Genomics/Epigenetics, Proteomics, and Metabonomics) for biomarker discovery, we have identified specific molecular markers which, once validated, could be used for real-time or near-real-time monitoring of the human response to uncharacterized exposures. The determination and use of validated biomarker sets, when installed on a fieldable biomonitor system, could allow fast determination of subclinical organ damage in response to chemical exposures. Since initiation of this program, our group has applied Omics technologies for biomarker discovery in a number of toxicology and human performance projects, including jet fuel exposures and cognitive fatigue.
Insights
Integrated Omics research identifies key biomarkers for early detection of warfighter toxicity. This enables real-time monitoring and prevention of health effects from uncharacterized exposures.
Area of Science:
- Military toxicology and human performance research.
- Biomarker discovery and application in defense settings.
Background:
- Current methods for detecting toxic exposures lack the responsiveness needed for timely intervention.
- The Air Force Research Laboratory initiated Integrated Omics research in 2003 to address this gap.
- The goal is to identify preclinical indicators of toxicity in warfighters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discover and validate molecular markers for real-time monitoring of human responses to exposures.
- To develop a fieldable biomonitor system for rapid assessment of subclinical organ damage.
- To enhance warfighter health and safety through advanced toxicological assessment.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing Integrated Omics approaches, including Genomics/Epigenetics, Proteomics, and Metabonomics.
- Applying Omics technologies to toxicology and human performance projects.
- Focusing on biomarker discovery for various exposure scenarios.
Main Results:
- Identification of specific molecular markers indicative of toxic exposure.
- Demonstrated potential for real-time or near-real-time monitoring capabilities.
- Application of Omics in projects involving jet fuel exposure and cognitive fatigue.
Conclusions:
- Validated biomarker sets can enable rapid determination of subclinical organ damage.
- Integrated Omics provides a powerful platform for advancing warfighter health monitoring.
- The research supports the development of responsive systems for managing toxicological risks.
