What would it cost to license or commercialize this breath analyzer technology?+
The project data does not disclose licensing terms or per-unit device costs. As a publicly funded RIA project coordinated by Technion (Israel Institute of Technology), IP arrangements would need to be negotiated with the consortium. Contact the coordinator through SciTransfer for licensing discussions.
Can this technology scale to mass screening programs?+
The project delivered 3 portable analyzer prototypes specifically designed for in-field testing, and an optimized prototype after field studies. The device was designed for large-scale implementation in high-burden regions. However, moving from 3 prototypes to mass production would require a manufacturing partner and regulatory approval.
Who owns the intellectual property?+
As an EU-funded Research and Innovation Action, IP is typically owned by the consortium partners who generated it. With 12 partners across 10 countries (7 universities, 3 research organizations, 1 industry partner), IP may be distributed. Technion as coordinator can clarify the IP landscape.
What regulatory approvals would be needed?+
As a medical screening device, this would require CE marking (EU MDR) for European markets and equivalent regulatory clearances in Latin American target countries. The clinical studies conducted in Latvia, Ukraine, Colombia, Brazil, and Chile provide foundational clinical data, but formal regulatory submissions would be a separate process.
How long before this could be available commercially?+
The project ended in September 2022 with an optimized prototype after field studies. Based on available project data, the technology reached field-tested prototype stage. Commercial deployment would likely require additional clinical validation, regulatory approval, and a manufacturing partnership.
Can this integrate with existing hospital equipment?+
The VOGAS analyzer is a standalone portable device combining electronic nose sensors (gold nanoparticles, metal oxide) with mid-infrared spectroscopy. Based on project deliverables, it was designed as an independent screening tool, not as an add-on to existing equipment. Integration with hospital information systems would need to be developed.
What evidence supports the diagnostic accuracy?+
Clinical studies were conducted in parallel across 5 countries (Latvia, Ukraine, Colombia, Brazil, Chile) enrolling gastric cancer patients and individuals with and without precancerous lesions. The project also addressed confounding factors including H. pylori infection. Specific sensitivity and specificity numbers are not disclosed in the available project data.
