SCITEC (Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies “Giulio Natta”) is based in Milan and is part of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR). The Institute conducts advanced research in chemistry and materials science, focusing on the development of innovative technologies and sustainable solutions. SCITEC promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, working at the intersection of chemistry, biology, physics, and engineering, with applications ranging from healthcare and energy to environmental protection and advanced manufacturing.
In particular, the research group involved in the NEXUS project focuses on the development of microanalytical techniques, including the synthesis of polymers, the functionalization of nanoparticles, and the design and fabrication of microarray surfaces. These technologies are applied to improve the sensitivity and specificity of analytical platforms, with applications in diagnostics and biomedical research.
In the NEXUS project, the SCITEC team is responsible for the development of the chemical method that underpins the separation and analysis of extracellular vesicles in the context of liquid biopsy. The work focuses on optimizing and validating this approach to ensure the reliable, efficient, and reproducible isolation of vesicles.
The team contributed to the development of a reversible antibody immobilization technique designed for the isolation of extracellular vesicles under mild conditions that preserve their integrity. This innovative method is based on the use of antibody-aptamer conjugates, which enable the selective capture and subsequent gentle release of EVs, minimizing potential structural damage and maintaining their biological functionality. This approach not only improved the efficiency and quality of EV isolation but also led to the filing of a patent, highlighting the novelty and potential of the technology.
In addition to this, the project also involved the development of a labeling technique for EVs using nanoparticles. This strategy enhances the detection and analysis of EVs by providing a robust and flexible tool for signal amplification, which is essential for applications such as diagnostics and biomarker discovery. The use of nanoparticles allows for versatile surface modifications and functionalization, which can be tailored to specific analytical needs.
Furthermore, the team also developed a surface chemistry protocol for the functionalization of silicon chips with DNA. This method enables the multiplexed detection of EVs, allowing simultaneous identification of different vesicle subpopulations based on specific nucleic acid sequences. This multiplexing capability is a key advancement for high-throughput analysis and paves the way for the integration of EV-based assays into compact and scalable diagnostic platforms.
The NEXUS project gave the CNR-SCITEC team the opportunity to critically evaluate the limitations of previously developed protocols, identify their weaknesses, and design a strategy that could overcome those challenges and bring a tangible advantage. This reflective process was essential in refining the methodology and enhancing its overall performance. Moreover, the project allowed to develop this concept with a forward-looking perspective, adapting it to be suitable for potential future implementation within an industrial or startup environment. Emphasis was placed on the reproducibility and sustainability of the method, ensuring that the approach is not only scientifically sound but also practical and scalable. The experience in NEXUS has been fundamental in bridging the gap between research and potential market applications, fostering a mindset oriented toward innovation and real-world impact.
