A smartphone tool for detecting jaundice in newborns
Smart-phone-integrated, non-invasive, depth-resolved optical spectroscopy for the detection of neonatal jaundice
This project aims to create a new smartphone-based device to quickly and accurately check for jaundice in babies without needing a blood test.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11112393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many newborns, especially those born early, develop jaundice because their livers are still developing. Currently, checking for jaundice often requires a painful blood test, which can be difficult for babies and their families. This project is developing a special camera technology that works with a smartphone to look beneath the skin and measure bilirubin levels. The goal is to provide a more comfortable and reliable way to monitor jaundice, particularly for babies with darker skin tones or those already receiving light therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this type of research would be newborns, especially those within the first few weeks of life who are at risk for or showing signs of jaundice.
Not a fit: Patients beyond the neonatal period or those without concerns for hyperbilirubinemia would not directly benefit from this specific detection method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could offer a pain-free, accurate, and convenient way to monitor jaundice in newborns, potentially preventing severe health issues.
How similar studies have performed: Existing non-invasive methods for detecting jaundice are used for screening but lack the accuracy needed for all clinical decisions, making this approach novel in its depth-resolved capabilities.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bowden, Audrey Kynsella — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Bowden, Audrey Kynsella
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.