Quantifying Exposure to Stress - Isis Project No 1254

Novel research at Oxford University has resulted in the development of a quantitative test for measuring stress in mammals, including Humans. Presently there is plenty of scope for future licences involving this attractive technology.

Market

Psychological stress is epidemic in the 21st Century. In humans, it is associated with major causes of death including cardiovascular disease, lung diseases, immune disorders, psychological disorders, workplace absenteeism and ulcers. Stress-related disorders are also extremely financially damaging to the farming industry, and are a dominant feature in veterinary practices. To date, despite various rough indicators of stress, there has been no development of quantifiable and practical measures of stress for use in humans or animals.

Oxford Invention

Researchers at Oxford and Coventry University have developed in vitro a method for quantifying stress from a single drop of blood. It relies on changes in the immune system that can be analysed quickly. Which means, for the first time, it will be possible to produce a quantitative measure of stress.

Applications

1. Monitoring stress in the workplace, optimising the potential of the workforce
2. Selecting individuals for highly stressed jobs
3. Health Screening for insurance purposes
4. Drug Screening
5. Environmental improvements in home & workplace
6. Optimising stress relief e.g. when travelling, in leisure facilities & the use of stress relieving devices
7. Improving farming techniques
8. Veterinary services: monitoring stress levels in domestic pets

Commercial Opportunity & Patent Status

Isis Innovation has applied for patent protection and is seeking commercial partners to exploit and further develop this novel and exciting technology.

Keywords

Stress, tension, blood test, blood testing, welfare human & animal, Neturophils Immune system, insulin pen, blood test medical devices, Luminometers, well-being and lifestyle

Request Further Information: Project Number 1254 - Quantifying Exposure to Stress