A new tool to measure oxygen levels for better skin cancer treatment

Ultra-sensitive Singlet Oxygen Dosimeter for Skin Cancer Treatment and Prevention

NIH-funded research Physical Sciences, INC · NIH-10438940

This study is testing a new device that can measure how well a skin cancer treatment called photodynamic therapy is working by checking the levels of a special type of oxygen, which could help make treatments more effective and improve sunscreen products for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPhysical Sciences, INC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Andover, United States)
Project IDNIH-10438940 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing an advanced optical dosimetry technology that can measure singlet oxygen levels during photodynamic therapy (PDT) for skin cancer. By using a novel approach called computational spectroscopy, the researchers aim to create a device that provides real-time feedback on the effectiveness of PDT, which is a targeted treatment for skin cancer. This technology will also help in understanding how UV light contributes to skin damage and cancer development, potentially leading to better sunscreen products. Patients may benefit from more personalized and effective treatment protocols as a result of this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with nonmelanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, who are considering photodynamic therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with melanoma or other types of skin cancer not treated with photodynamic therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with skin cancer through more effective photodynamic therapy.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using optical technologies for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Andover, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancerSkin Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.