Creating a new type of protein biosensor for quick health tests

De novo design of a generalizable protein biosensor platform for point-of-care testing

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ · NIH-11105866

This study is working on a new type of test that uses special proteins to quickly and accurately check for health issues, like COVID-19, right at your doctor's office or even at home, so you can get the answers you need faster and easier.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SANTA CRUZ, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11105866 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a novel protein biosensor platform that can provide rapid and accurate diagnostic testing at the point-of-care, such as clinics or even at home. By utilizing advanced computational protein design, the researchers will create modular protein switches that can change shape in response to specific clinical targets, enabling quick detection of various health conditions, including COVID-19. The goal is to make these tests fast, inexpensive, and reliable, ultimately improving healthcare delivery and easing the burden on hospitals. Patients may benefit from having immediate access to diagnostic information, which can lead to timely treatment decisions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who require rapid diagnostic testing for conditions like COVID-19 or other infectious diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not require point-of-care testing or those who are not affected by the diseases targeted by the biosensors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with faster and more accessible diagnostic testing for various health conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing point-of-care diagnostic tools, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

SANTA CRUZ, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.