A New Way to Detect Many Diseases Quickly and Without Needles
A Novel Device for Rapid and Noninvasive Volatile Metabolite-based Screening and Diagnosis of Multiple Disease States
This project is developing a new, easy-to-use device that can find signs of many different diseases by simply sensing unique smells from your skin.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101346 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies naturally release tiny scent molecules, called volatile organic compounds, through our skin. When we are sick, these scents can change in specific ways, much like how trained animals can sniff out certain illnesses. We are working to turn this natural ability into a reliable, machine-based system that can quickly identify these disease-related scents. This portable device could help doctors screen for, diagnose, and keep an eye on various health conditions, from infections to metabolic issues, right in the clinic.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is foundational for anyone who might benefit from early and non-invasive detection of a wide range of infectious, inflammatory, metabolic, malignant, psychiatric, or neurologic diseases.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions do not produce distinct volatile organic compound signatures through the skin may not receive direct benefit from this specific diagnostic approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could offer a fast, comfortable, and non-invasive way to detect many diseases early, potentially leading to quicker treatment and better health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While animals have shown success in detecting diseases through scent, this project aims to translate that concept into a novel, standardized, and mechanized device for human use.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koo, Sophia — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Koo, Sophia
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 below.