A new compact device for detecting low-abundance protein biomarkers at the point-of-care.
Official title: SEMI-SIMOA: A Chip-scale Flow-based Single-Molecule Assay at the Point-of-Care using Semiconductor Technology
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11132821 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a small, easy-to-use device that can quickly and accurately detect important proteins related to neurological conditions, helping patients get faster diagnoses and treatment right where they are, without needing complicated lab equipment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $149,102 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EB036154-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11132821 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions or those requiring biomarker testing for diagnosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve low-abundance protein biomarkers may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a compact single-molecule assay (SIMOA) system that can detect low-abundance protein biomarkers, such as those related to neurological conditions, using a semiconductor chip. The innovative design integrates microfluidics and electronics into a small device, allowing for easy use outside of specialized laboratories. Patients can benefit from this technology as it enables rapid and accurate diagnostics directly at the point-of-care, potentially leading to quicker treatment decisions. The system is designed to be user-friendly, allowing results to be viewed on personal devices without the need for bulky equipment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with faster and more accessible diagnostic testing for various conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar single-molecule assay technologies, indicating a promising approach for point-of-care diagnostics.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chien, Jun-Chau — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Chien, Jun-Chau
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.