PATHFINDER

Project description

Timely and accurate diagnosis of central nervous system and respiratory infections remains challenging and may result in delayed or suboptimal treatment. The PATHFINDER project aims to develop an integrated diagnostic approach that combines rapid nanopore-based metagenomic sequencing (mNGS) for pathogen detection with host-response biomarkers that provide insight into the patient's immune response.

By integrating information on both the pathogen and the host response, the approach may enable more accurate diagnosis and support earlier, more precise treatment decisions. The project will develop and evaluate this approach in Norwegian hospitals, establish collaborative diagnostic networks, and assess its clinical and health-economic impact.  

The study uses a multiple work-package (WP) design

WP1 develops mNGS workflows  

WP2 evaluates host biomarkers 

WP3 builds diagnostic networks to promote standardization and access

WP4 assesses cost-justification in Norwegian hospital settings

Fundings

Funded by Helse Sør-Øst and ReSpiraNet.