Validation and Comparative Multi-Omics Benchmarking of Fluid-Derived Volatilomics Biomarkers for the Prevention and Early Detection of Schizophrenia

VOLABIOS is centred around addressing the major challenges faced in the diagnosis and management of schizophrenia (SZ), with the aim of achieving more efficient and effective results through validated biomarkers and innovative technologies. SZ is a complex brain disorder that poses a high global burden and is characterized by diverse symptoms, impairments, and biological causes. The current diagnostic methods are hampered by the absence of objective biomarkers, leading to delays and inaccuracies in diagnosis. In the first months of psychosis the outcome is unclear and these early psychosis stages (hereafter abbreviated by pre-SZ, since at the stage of data collection the illness outcome and diagnosis is clinically visible, yet) may reveal to brief psychotic episodes, acute transient psychosis, schizophreniforme disorder or SZ. This lack of early diagnosis and intervention severely impacts patient outcomes and contributes to the progression and increased disability of the disorder. The goal of VOLABIOS is to revolutionize the diagnosis and monitoring of SZ by utilizing volatilomics, a novel, minimally invasive approach focused on detecting and analysing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) present in bodily fluids. This methodology promises to be more efficient and accessible in identifying SZ early on, addressing the limitations of current diagnostic practices that rely heavily on subjective assessments and lack specificity. VOLABIOS will conduct a comprehensive study involving 3692 patients and controls across six European clinical centres to validate the efficacy and nature of VOCs in supporting early diagnosis of SZ. By integrating validated VOCs with genomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics data, VOLABIOS aims to develop a deeper understanding of the disorder, which will facilitate the creation of effective diagnostic tools capable of detecting the disorder at an early stage. In addition, VOLABIOS aims to improve diagnostic outcomes by analysing a vast dataset of retrospective population records and examining correlations with various risk factors, lifestyle choices, and other disorders that share symptoms with SZ. This holistic approach ensures the robustness of identified VOC biomarkers and their relevance to SZ diagnosis and monitoring. The project also plans to explore the potential of computational drug repurposing and pharmacogenomics approaches for personalized treatment and management of SZ, highlighting its commitment to advancing personalized medicine. Moreover, VOLABIOS emphasizes the creation of Value-Based Care Models (VBCM) and a centralized protocol for diagnosing SZ in the EU, reflecting its dedication to enhancing patient care and the efficiency of healthcare systems. With the support of key stakeholders, including Ministries of Health and influential policy makers, VOLABIOS is well-positioned to lead the adoption of validated VOC biomarkers and innovative technologies, significantly improving patient outcomes and the overall quality of healthcare for individuals with SZ. In summary, VOLABIOS is a ground-breaking initiative that will have far-reaching implications in the field of SZ diagnosis and management.