Creating a device to measure properties of respiratory and drug particles in real-time
Official title: Development of aerosol fluorescence spectrometer for measuring multiple physicochemical properties of respiratory and drug particles in situ
Funded at Auburn University at Auburn · NIH-10952683 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new device that can measure tiny particles in the air and droplets to help us understand how respiratory viruses spread and how well medications can reach the lungs, making it easier to improve treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Auburn University at Auburn NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Auburn, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $229,454 |
| NIH project number | 1R21GM155887-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952683 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with respiratory conditions or those who may benefit from enhanced drug delivery systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have respiratory issues or are not involved in aerosol drug delivery systems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new device that can measure important properties of tiny particles found in aerosols and droplets, which are crucial for understanding how respiratory viruses spread and how effectively drugs can be delivered to the lungs. The device will use fluorescence technology to assess the phase state, viscosity, and pH of these particles without altering their characteristics. By measuring these properties in real-time, the research aims to fill a significant gap in knowledge that currently limits our understanding of aerosol behavior and drug delivery efficiency.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for delivering medications to the lungs and better strategies for controlling the spread of respiratory viruses.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using fluorescence for in situ measurements is innovative, similar techniques have shown promise in other areas of aerosol research, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
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Auburn University at Auburn
Auburn, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ohno, Paul — Auburn University at Auburn
- Study coordinator: Ohno, Paul
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.