Creating advanced 3D-printed glass optical systems for medical imaging
Official title: 3D-Printed Glass Micro-Optical System for Biomedical and Clinical Applications
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11104805 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating new tiny glass tools for better medical imaging during procedures like endoscopy, using special 3D printing techniques to make them more compact and clearer, which could help doctors diagnose and treat patients more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $560,770 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EB037023-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11104805 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients requiring advanced imaging techniques for diagnosis or treatment in clinical settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require imaging or those with conditions that do not involve endoscopic procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative glass micro-optical systems specifically designed for biomedical imaging applications, particularly in endoscopy. By utilizing advanced 3D printing techniques, the project aims to fabricate all components of these optical systems as a single unit, enhancing their compactness and resolution while eliminating traditional mechanical assembly challenges. The approach leverages novel materials and two-photon polymerization processes to create optical systems with unique attributes that are not achievable through conventional manufacturing methods. Patients may benefit from improved imaging technologies that enhance diagnostic capabilities and treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and precise imaging tools for medical diagnostics, improving patient care.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in the development of 3D-printed optical systems, indicating a potential for success in this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liang, Rongguang — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Liang, Rongguang
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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.