Detection of Rare Molecular Targets with a digital PCR
Project coordinator: Barbara Jerič Kokelj, PhD / Maja Štalekar, PhD
Code: operation no. C3330-17-529023 »Raziskovalci-2.0-NIB-529023«
Duration: 1. 6. 2017 - 31. 5. 2020
The aim and goal of our research project entitled »Detection of Rare Molecular Targets with a digital PCR« is to examine whether digital PCR is a suitable analytical tool for the field of transplantation medicine. On the basis of our own developed DNA targets and our own digital PCR testing format, we will develop new procedures and robust methodological solutions for the detection and quantification of low concentrations of specific sequences in donor cell-free DNA. The method will be validated on samples of patients with a transplanted kidney. Results of the project could enable development of new products, especially in the field of methods for transplanted organ health monitoring, through effective monitoring of cell-free DNA concentration in the blood plasma. Project activities therefore represent an important contribution to the diagnostics field in healthcare and enable transfer of innovative approaches from the research laboratories to the clinical practice. The developed method will have an exceptional potential in the wider diagnostics area, therefore the results of the project could be widely used and represent a general social benefit.
The operation is partly funded by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport.