Creating a low-cost, compact system for sorting blood cells using holographic imaging and 3D printing
Official title: Developing a low cost, highly compact holographic imaging based microfluidic cell sorting system using 3D printing
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10575747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $389,751 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB034098-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10575747 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease or other conditions that require the analysis of rare blood cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have sickle cell disease or similar conditions that involve rare blood cell analysis may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hong, Jiarong — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Hong, Jiarong
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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.