On March 2026, a new research project entitled “MIPSI – Polymer Sensors for the Improved Diagnosis of Neurological Disorders” will commence at IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences (IMC Krems). The project aims to develop a novel, non-invasive nanotechnology for the rapid and reliable detection of abnormal dopamine in human urine. The objective is to significantly enhance the early diagnosis of neurological and psychiatric conditions.
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New Research Project on the Early Diagnosis of Neurological Disorders
Dopamine as a key biomarker
Disorders such as Parkinson's disease and Schizophrenia are closely linked to imbalances in dopamine levels. Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide after Alzheimer's disease. As no curative treatment is currently available, early and accurate diagnosis is of crucial importance. Changes in dopamine concentration may occur in the early stages of disease – provided they can be measured in a practical and precise manner.
Non-invasive, rapid and user-friendly
At the core of the project are innovative colorimetric sensors capable of selectively detecting dopamine and indicating its presence through a visible colour change. The technology is based on molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) – synthetic materials that function in a similar way to artificial antibodies. They are stable, reusable and cost-effective to produce, making them particularly suitable for clinical analytical applications.
To accelerate detection, these sensing polymers are combined with self-stirring magnetic silica micromotors. Their active movement within the liquid sample enhances mass transport and significantly reduces analysis time. The result is a patient-friendly rapid test that avoids invasive procedures while maintaining high sensitivity and specificity.
Research at the interface of chemistry and medicine
“Our goal is to develop a method that is both easy to use and highly precise, enabling rapid detection of fluctuating dopamine levels,” explains project leader Prof.(FH) Priv.-Doz. Dr Yolanda Salinas Soler from the Institute of Applied Chemistry at IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems. “This will lay the foundation for improved early diagnostics and open up new perspectives in personalised medicine.”
Nanomaterials and innovative sensor systems are among the strategic research priorities at IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems. With MIPSI, the university is further strengthening its expertise at the interface of chemistry, nanotechnology and medicine.
Project details
The project will run from March 2026 until December 2028. It is funded by the Federal State of Lower Austria and co-financed by the European Union under the funding programme “Research for Tomorrow” (scheme: “Research & Technology Development Quality”).