Creating a low-cost, compact system for sorting blood cells using holographic imaging and 3D printing

Developing a low cost, highly compact holographic imaging based microfluidic cell sorting system using 3D printing

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10575747

This study is working on a new device that uses special imaging and 3D printing to help doctors quickly and accurately sort rare blood cells, like those affected by sickle cell disease, which could lead to better diagnoses and treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10575747 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing an innovative microfluidic cell sorting system that utilizes holographic imaging and 3D printing technology. The goal is to create a device that can efficiently analyze and sort rare blood cells, such as those affected by sickle cell disease, for better diagnosis and treatment. By addressing current limitations in cell sorting technology, this project aims to enhance the precision and throughput of cell analysis, making it more accessible for clinical applications. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic capabilities and targeted therapies resulting from this advanced technology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease or other conditions that require the analysis of rare blood cells.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have sickle cell disease or similar conditions that involve rare blood cell analysis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and efficient diagnosis and treatment options for patients with sickle cell disease and other conditions requiring precise cell sorting.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging-based microfluidics for cell sorting, but this approach aims to address specific limitations and improve accessibility, making it a novel endeavor.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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 Hb SS diseaseHbSS diseaseHemoglobin S DiseaseHemoglobin sickle cell diseaseHemoglobin sickle cell disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.