A new method to help diagnose and treat skin cancer using a mini microscope.
Official title: Mini-reflectance confocal microscope (Mini-RCM) for aiding skin cancer diagnosis and treatment
Funded at Argosmd, INC. · NIH-11077184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, gentle device that helps doctors look at skin spots for signs of cancer without needing to do painful biopsies, making it easier and quicker for patients to get the care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Argosmd, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Studio City, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R41CA298754-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077184 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with suspicious skin lesions who are at risk for skin cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with confirmed skin cancer who are already undergoing treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer by utilizing a mini-reflectance confocal microscope (Mini-RCM). This innovative device allows for non-invasive examination of skin lesions, potentially reducing the need for painful biopsies. By providing immediate diagnostic information during the first clinic visit, it aims to streamline the treatment process and minimize unnecessary procedures. The study seeks to address the limitations of current biopsy methods, which are often costly and time-consuming.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and less invasive skin cancer diagnoses, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using reflectance confocal microscopy have shown promise in improving skin cancer diagnosis, indicating a potential for success with this new approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Argosmd, INC.
Studio City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kang, Dongkyun — Argosmd, INC.
- Study coordinator: Kang, Dongkyun
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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.