Biomarker Panel for MS Relapse Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is currently no method for predicting or diagnosing if a patient with multiple sclerosis is about to experience a relapse, nor is there a way to predict the probability of recovering from a relapse with standard symptomatic treatments.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the obtaining of a sample from an individual, assaying it for elevated levels of biomarkers such as Factor VIII clotting activity and von Willebrand Factor antigen, and using these biomarkers to diagnose susceptibility for a relapse of acute severe multiple sclerosis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no biomarker testing is performed, then the diagnostic process remains simple, but the ability to predict relapse susceptibility is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex clinical observation and trial-and-error diagnostic approaches with a biochemical measurement system. By substituting mechanical/clinical assessment with laboratory-based biomarker quantification (Factor VIII, von Willebrand Factor, Protein C), the system achieves reliable relapse prediction while maintaining procedural simplicity through standardized blood testing protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces biomarkers as intermediary substances that mediate between the disease state and diagnostic information. These biomarkers serve as measurable proxies for relapse susceptibility, allowing indirect but accurate assessment without requiring direct observation of disease progression or complex imaging procedures.
2Loss of information
If biomarker testing is implemented, then relapse prediction capability is improved, but diagnostic cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a panel of biomarkers that serve multiple diagnostic functions simultaneously. Factor VIII, von Willebrand Factor, and Protein C levels collectively provide information about relapse susceptibility, disease activity, and treatment response. This multi-functional approach maximizes information gain while consolidating the testing procedure into a single comprehensive assay panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent monitors dynamic changes in biomarker parameters over time rather than relying on single static measurements. By tracking temporal variations in Factor VIII, von Willebrand Factor, and Protein C levels, the system captures evolving disease states and predicts relapse risk based on parameter trajectories, thereby reducing the need for frequent separate testing sessions.
3Reliability
If standard symptomatic treatments are used, then treatment simplicity is maintained, but the ability to predict recovery probability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where biomarker levels provide continuous information about disease state and treatment effectiveness. By measuring Factor VIII, von Willebrand Factor, and Protein C before and during treatment, clinicians receive feedback on recovery probability and can adjust symptomatic treatments accordingly, transforming simple treatment into an informed, adaptive therapeutic approach.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein is a method of detecting or predicting a relapse of multiple sclerosis in an individual afflicted with a form of multiple sclerosis, comprising: (a) providing a blood sample of the individual; (b) testing the blood sample to determine a protein activity or protein level, wherein the protein is Factor VIII, von Willebrand factor, or Protein C; and (c) detecting or predicting a relapse of multiple sclerosis in the individual if the protein activity or protein level is elevated compared to the protein activity or protein level in an individual not afflicted with the form of multiple sclerosis and patients' own baseline values. Also provided herein is a method of treating an individual afflicted with multiple sclerosis, who is experiencing a relapse or predicted to experience a relapse, comprising treating the individual by administering a dose of a steroid or anti-coagulation compound effective to alleviate the symptom of multiple sclerosis.