RAE (Realize, Analyze, Engage)- A Digital Biomarker Based Detection and Intervention System for Stress and Craving During Recovery from Substance Abuse Disorders - PROJECT SUMMARY
The research project outlined in this SBIR submission will develop the Realize, Analyze, Engage (RAE)
platform into a tool to promote sustained recovery in individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorder.
In this proposal, the investigators intend to deploy the RAE system- consisting of a wearable sensor, a
smartphone app, and a clinical portal- to provide individuals in recovery and their treatment providers with an
opportunity to identify moments of high risk for relapse and to access real time intervention opportunities.
Wearable biosensors are small, noninvasive devices that continuously record physiology. These sensors have
the ability to detect digital biomarkers of drug use and stress, the latter of which herald an increased risk of
relapse. RAE aims to utilize this capability to create a real-time solution for individuals in recovery. The
components of RAE are: 1) The Empatica Embrace, a wrist mounted sensor similar in form factor to a smart
watch, that continuously monitors skin temperature, electrodermal activity (EDA) and locomotion. Detection
algorithms for stress and drug use will be embedded on the Embrace firmware. 2) The RAE smartphone
application (app), for the individual in recovery. The app will be triggered either by detection of an event on the
Embrace or manually by the user when needed and will provide multiple options for annotations, stress
reduction techniques and immediate contact with individuals in the pre-defined support system via call or SMS
text. The app will also log sleep, physical activity, and geographic location of events. 3) The RAE Portal, for
the treatment provider, will deliver immediate alerts when an event is detected on the user’s device for the
opportunity to intervene in real time and will also provide metrics on the user’s recorded activities. The
research plan has two Specific Aims: Aim 1) To deploy and optimize the RAE system in a population of
individuals in treatment for substance use disorder and Aim 2) To demonstrate the impact of the RAE system
on outcomes in substance use treatment. To achieve these aims the investigators will first deploy the
technology in a population of individuals in recovery and collect data on accuracy, usability and functionality
(Aim 1). The data from Aim 1 will be used to optimize the system and achieve millstones prior to transition to
Aim 2 which will include sensitivity, specify, accuracy and user compliance targets. The investigators will then
undertake a multi-site, randomized controlled trial (Aim 2) to evaluate the efficacy of RAE on key outcomes
including rates of relapse, retention in treatment programs, and psychosocial wellbeing. The investigators
have assembled a leadership team and advisory team with the necessary expertise in business, medicine,
wearable technology and engineering to develop RAE into a tool that dramatically improves the success of
treatment for substance use disorder, promotes sustained sobriety, and reduces morbidity and mortality from
relapse to substance use.
