A new method for detecting cancer using tiny sensors and biofluids.
Official title: A miniaturized neural network enabled nanoplasmonic spectroscopy platform for label-free cancer detection in biofluids
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11063808 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, small device that can quickly and easily check for cancer signs in your saliva or blood without needing painful procedures, making it easier for patients to keep track of their cancer status.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $645,359 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA273253-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063808 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for head and neck cancer who are seeking non-invasive diagnostic options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that are not detectable through the biomarkers targeted by this research may not benefit.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a miniaturized platform that uses advanced spectroscopy techniques to detect cancer biomarkers in non-invasive biofluids like saliva and blood plasma. By employing a neural network approach, the platform aims to analyze the entire infrared spectrum of these fluids, allowing for accurate and rapid cancer diagnostics. This method seeks to overcome the limitations of current diagnostic techniques, which can be invasive, costly, and time-consuming. Patients may benefit from a more accessible and efficient way to monitor their cancer status without the need for traditional biopsies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a revolutionary method for early cancer detection that is less invasive and more cost-effective.
How similar studies have gone: While similar approaches have shown promise in the past, this specific method utilizing neural networks and nanoplasmonic technology is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gomez Diaz, Juan Sebastian — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Gomez Diaz, Juan Sebastian
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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.