Our Science
First-of-its-Kind Technology Using Deformability Cytometry to Detect Sepsis
The Cytovale System uses a combination of ultra-high resolution imaging, precision microfluidics, high throughput image analysis, computer vision, and machine learning to examine cell morphology and measure the level of immune cell activation. The IntelliSep sepsis test is the first application of this technology.
Why Do We Interrogate
Cell Structure?
Cellular structure and function are linked
When white blood cells undergo functional changes, such as those caused by sepsis, their biomechanics—like size, deformability, stiffness, and behavior in fluid—also change.
These biomechanical differences can be observed by applying hydrodynamic forces to interrogate cells. The mechanical properties of cells have been shown to be useful markers of cellular activation, providing valuable insights into disease progression.1
- Di Carlo, D. “A mechanical biomaker of cell state in medicine,” J Lab Autom. (2012) Feb;17(1):32-42.
How Does Our Technology Work?
The Cytovale System isolates, images, and analyzes cells.
Using precision microfluidics and deformability cytometry, the Cytovale System interrogates tens of thousands of cells to observe changes in biomechanical properties.
Combining State-of-the-Art Science with Simple-to-Use Tools
In our application of this technology for sepsis, we examine white blood cells which become more deformable when activated.1
White blood cells are isolated and then transferred into the cartridge. Cells then pass through the microfluidic junction, novel technology that accommodates the deformability cytometry technique of interrogating cells. When interrogating cells in this manner, we can analyze the biomechanical properties of thousands of individual cells in rapid succession.
- Sorrels et al. “Biophysical Changes of Leukocyte Activation (and NETosis) in the Cellular Host Response to Sepsis,” Diagnostics. (2023) March;13(8).
Observation of the Effects of Deformability Cytometry from the Cytovale System in the Application of Sepsis
The Cytovale System features ultra-high resolution imaging and computer vision to capture images of cells during the interrogation process.
In the example of sepsis, activated immune cells appear very different than those that are not activated.
Machine Learning Algorithm Produces Clinically Actionable Results
The Cytovale System uses high-throughput image analysis and machine learning to examine biologically relevant features in cell images, translating them into a score that reflects differences in cell behavior.
The IntelliSep sepsis test, the first application of Cytovale’s technology, provides insights into a patient’s immune activation level. Results are reported as a score (0.1 – 10.0), indicating a low to high probability of sepsis.1
- Guillou L, Sheybani R, Jensen AE, et al. Development and validation of a cellular host response test as an early diagnostic for sepsis. PLOS ONE. 2021;16(4).
Today’s Understanding of Sepsis Requires An Innovative Approach
IntelliSep assesses immune activation and provides a probability of sepsis occurring within 3 days of testing.
Infection is common and most of the time it leads to a regulated immune response, and is self limiting.
However, some infections lead to dysregulated immune response, causing life threatening organ failure. This is sepsis and can lead to long-term morbidity and mortality.
Early diagnosis is key to providing appropriate treatment and achieving source control, leading to better outcomes.
Historically it has been difficult to identify the state of immune activation in real-time, to see who is septic.
Now, with IntelliSep you can, leading to early sepsis detection and the best outcomes.
SOURCE: Graphic adapted from Mervyn Singer, MD, European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) 2022.
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Future Applications
Cytovale technology, focused on the interrogation of the immune system, has broad menu expansion opportunities in key areas of unmet need.
