A new imaging platform for studying 3D organoids to improve cancer treatments
Official title: A parallelized computational microscope platform for high-throughput live imaging of patient-derived organoids
Funded at Ramona Optics, INC. · NIH-11110363 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new type of microscope that helps scientists take detailed 3D videos of tiny models of human tissues, which could lead to better cancer treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ramona Optics, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | June 7, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,000,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R44CA285197-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110363 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are patients with various types of cancer who may be eligible for novel treatment approaches derived from organoid studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cancer or those not eligible for organoid-based therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a cutting-edge computational microscope platform designed to enhance the imaging of 3D organoids, which are miniaturized models of human tissues. By enabling high-throughput imaging, the platform will allow researchers to capture detailed 3D videos of organoid behavior, such as cell viability and migration, at unprecedented speeds. This innovative approach aims to facilitate the discovery of new cancer treatment strategies by providing insights into the dynamic processes of tumor organoids. Patients may benefit from the advancements in cancer therapies that arise from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized cancer treatments based on insights gained from organoid studies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results using similar high-throughput imaging techniques in organoid studies, indicating a strong potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ramona Optics, INC.
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harfouche, Mark — Ramona Optics, INC.
- Study coordinator: Harfouche, Mark
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.