RPI ID: 2017-045-401

Innovation Summary:
Developed by RPI creators, this invention presents a novel system for detecting amyloid fibrils using engineered fluorescent proteins. The method enables sensitive and specific binding to amyloid aggregates, which are hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. By leveraging the optical properties of fluorescent proteins, the system allows real-time visualization and quantification of amyloid fibrils in biological samples. This approach offers a non-invasive, scalable, and highly adaptable platform for both diagnostic and research applications 1.

Challenges / Opportunities:
Current methods for detecting amyloid fibrils often rely on dyes or antibodies that lack specificity, require complex preparation, or are not suitable for live-cell imaging. This invention addresses these limitations by introducing a genetically encoded fluorescent protein system that binds selectively to amyloid structures. It opens new opportunities for early diagnosis, drug screening, and mechanistic studies of protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases.

Key Benefits / Advantages:
✔ High specificity and sensitivity for amyloid fibrils
✔ Real-time, live-cell imaging capability
✔ Genetically encoded—no need for external dyes or labels
✔ Scalable for high-throughput screening
✔ Applicable to a wide range of amyloid-related diseases

Applications:
• Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease research
• Early-stage diagnostics for amyloid-related disorders
• Drug discovery and screening platforms
• Protein aggregation studies in cellular and animal models

Keywords:
#Amyloid fibrils #fluorescent protein #neurodegenerative disease #protein aggregation #live-cell imaging #biosensing

Intellectual Property:
US Issued Patent 11,536,731