A portable device for self-testing HIV using blood samples
Official title: A Portable Fluorescence Lateral Flow Device for Self-Testing of HIV
Funded at University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-11021022 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a handy, paper-based test that lets people check for HIV at home using just a tiny drop of blood from a finger prick, making it easier and faster to get important results without needing to go to a lab.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hadley, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $426,351 |
| NIH project number | 5R61AI181019-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021022 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are at risk of HIV infection or seeking to know their HIV status.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who have already been diagnosed and are receiving treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a portable, paper-based device that allows individuals to self-test for HIV using a small blood sample from a finger prick. The device utilizes advanced technology to detect the p24 antigen, a key marker for early HIV infection, which is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. By integrating a fluorescent sensor and a plasma-separation unit into a single microfluidic strip, the device aims to provide accurate results quickly and conveniently, without the need for professional laboratory assistance. This innovation could significantly improve access to HIV testing, especially in areas with limited healthcare resources.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable early and accessible HIV testing, leading to improved health outcomes and reduced transmission rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing point-of-care testing devices for various conditions, indicating potential success for this novel approach to HIV testing.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Hadley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Nianqiang — University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Study coordinator: Wu, Nianqiang
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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.