Contact Address
Tel.
+41 44 255 37 46
Mail
exhalomics@usz.ch
Research Group Malcolm Kohler
We specialize in translational research using breath analysis with mass spectrometry and its clinical implementation. Our work emphasizes the integration of basic biomedical science, clinical research, and patient care. At the same time, we leverage close collaborations with the University of Basel, ETH Zurich, and other leading research institutions and university hospitals in Switzerland and internationally.
Projects
Analysis of Exhaled Breath from Patients with Lung-/Airway Diseases (BigExBrESs)
Exhaled breath contains thousands of volatile compounds reflecting ongoing biochemical processes in the body. Our study uses secondary electrospray ionization – mass spectrometry (SESI-MS) to analyze the breath of patients with lung and airway diseases, aiming to identify and distinguish different respiratory diseases and improve disease management.
With one of the largest databases of exhaled breath profiles worldwide, including over 5,000 patients, we leverage Big Data to enhance diagnosis, improving the understanding of underlying pathophysiological processes, and guide personalized care. Breath analysis offers a non-invasive, patient-friendly approach to gain continuous insights into health status and therapeutic effects.
Exhaled Breath Analysis in Human Subjects (ExBrESs)
This study investigates exhaled breath in patients with COPD, pneumonia, obstructive sleep apnea, heart failure, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease, compared to healthy controls. We also study individuals taking medications requiring blood-level monitoring, such as antiepileptics, cancer therapies, immunosuppressants, and antimicrobials.
Exhaled breath contains thousands of volatile compounds reflecting ongoing biochemical processes in the body. Using mass spectrometry, we profile volatile compounds in breath and correlate them with metabolites in blood or saliva. This allows us to identify disease-specific breath patterns, monitor drug levels non-invasively, and explore underlying pathophysiological processes.