One of the most promising applications that QT Sense has identified so far is the early detection of sepsis, which is a serious condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection. Currently, sepsis is mainly diagnosed on the basis of symptoms that take hours or even days to develop. As a result, treatment is started (too) late and many people still die every year.
The good news is that sepsis can be detected earlier. Free radical generation is one of the body's first responses to sepsis and occurs almost immediately. Quantifying these free radicals in real time, hidden within subcellular structures, has been a technological challenge. QT Sense has found a solution using Relaxometry, a powerful quantum sensing tool that allows a magnetic signal to be converted into an optical signal that can be used to obtain MRI signals at the nanoscale. These signals can be used to detect stress responses (e.g. caused by a drug, ageing or a specific disease) at the single cell level.
The technique has the potential to detect sepsis within seconds, increasing the chances of survival. It is even more accurate, less complex and cheaper to produce than conventional techniques.
Deepak Veeregowda, CEO QT Sense: We are currently focusing on developing a prototype to be tested in the academic market. The guiding principle is that the technology should be easy to use, small and portable, without sacrificing key features. Through feedback and validation from these early adopters, we will develop and optimize the equipment for specific applications.
Meanwhile, Professor Schirhagl's research group is investigating applications beyond sepsis, including fertility, antibiotic testing and ageing.
Romana Schirhagl, Professor and Founder of QT Sense: “With QT Sense, we will bring quantum science to the medical world. I am proud of the impact we will make with that”.
Visit the QT Sense website for more info.
