In collaboration with the Biofluid Mechanics Laboratory (LfB) at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Haag Group at Freie Universität Berlin (FU), we are developing an innovative medical probe designed for the in vivo extraction of CTCs in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Building on the proven cell capture principle of the BMProbe™, the new probe introduces advanced materials, novel surface treatments, and a next-generation coating. Together, these components are engineered to improve the probe’s ability to selectively capture CTCs while minimizing interference from other blood components.
FU is developing a mussel-inspired, multi-layered coating that mimics the natural extracellular matrix. This bioinspired approach aims to enhance the ratio of captured CTCs to non-specific blood cell adhesion. They are also exploring a reversible binding mechanism that allows for the gentle release of captured cells, preserving their viability for downstream molecular and functional analyses.
INVICOL is investigating the influence of different base materials and surface treaments on coating quality and cell binding efficiency as well as designing a customized coating process to ensure uniform application and scalability for clinical use. In parallel, LfB is pioneering a new in vitro testing protocol to evaluate the biocompatibility and hemocompatibility of invasive devices. This protocol addresses the limitations of current standard tests, which often fail to accurately reflect physiological conditions.
Finally, the performance and safety of the system will be validated in preclinical animal studies, bringing this promising diagnostic tool one step closer to clinical application.
Funding Program: Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand (ZIM)
Funding by: Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (BMWE)
Project duration: 01.08.2025 – 31.07.2027
Cooperation partner: Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin