A handheld device to measure tissue mechanical properties
Official title: A handheld tissue force microscope
Funded at Carnegie-Mellon University · NIH-11046595 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new handheld device that can measure the strength and flexibility of cells and tissues in a more detailed way, which could help us understand how organs grow and heal, ultimately leading to better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Carnegie-Mellon University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $390,857 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM153059-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046595 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions affecting tissue development or regeneration, such as cancer or developmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable conditions that do not involve tissue mechanical properties or development may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a handheld tissue force microscope to measure the mechanical properties of cells and tissues in three dimensions. By understanding how these properties influence the development and regeneration of organs and tissues, the research aims to fill a significant gap in current methodologies that are limited to simpler sample geometries. The device will allow for more complex measurements that can enhance our understanding of biological processes and diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this technology, which could lead to improved treatments and therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into tissue mechanics that may lead to better treatment options for various diseases and developmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in tissue measurement technologies, the handheld approach for complex 3D geometries is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Carnegie-Mellon University
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riviere, Cameron N — Carnegie-Mellon University
- Study coordinator: Riviere, Cameron N
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.