Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable

Non-invasive Malaria Diagnostic Data Collection in Ethiopia

200 participantsStarted 2026-04

Plain-language summary

This project supports the development of a non-invasive diagnostic tool for malaria, focusing on validating the link between VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and malaria infection using thermodynamic sensors. This technology aims to provide rapid, painless alternatives to blood-based diagnostics, enabling malaria detection without invasive sampling. Trace Sensing has already identified six potential VOC biomarkers based on published literature specific for malaria. Two of these are part of the company's existing library and can already be detected in purified form by the TRACE-E device, while the others are under active evaluation. To confirm the suitability of the selected VOC biomarkers for diagnosing malaria and strengthen the detection algorithm, high-quality, robust clinical data from well-characterized biological specimens are required. In partnership with Gondar University in Ethiopia, breath samples will be collected from individuals (12 years and older) suspected of having malaria presenting at two health clinics. PCR performed on blood samples will serve as reference method to confirm infection status, while non-invasive clinical breath tests will be performed using the TRACE-E device. The resulting data will confirm whether the six candidate malaria VOC biomarkers can be detected in patient breath, and if other VOC biomarkers can be detected as well. This study will therefore act as a malaria VOC biomarker confirmation study.

Who can participate

Age range

12 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: Aged 12 years or older Presenting at the study site with fever (37.5 degrees and above) Freely agreeing to participate by providing informed consent (and assent, if applicable) Exclusion Criteria: Presence of symptoms and signs of severe illness and/or central nervous system infections. Presenting with any condition that prevents adequate breath collection: Asthma Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Severe respiratory illness Inability to follow instructions Patient lacking capacity to provide informed consent. Prior antimalarial treatment within the last 14 days.

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Endpoint 1

Timeframe: From June 2026 to September 2026

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07456969

SponsorFoundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, Switzerland

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeOBSERVATIONAL

Primary completion2026-07

Contact for this trial

Andres De la Rossa, PhD

+41 798814705 andres.delarossa@finddx.org

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Malaria Fever trials