Developing a new method for fast 3D chemical imaging in living tissues

Hyperspectral chemical imaging via sum-frequency generation microscopic holography

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-11143163

This study is working on a new way to take quick and detailed 3D images of tumors and living cells without harming them, which could help us understand diseases better and improve treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-11143163 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a novel holographic platform that allows for high-speed, noninvasive 3D chemical imaging. It aims to improve the analysis of tumor microenvironments and facilitate real-time imaging of live cell cultures, animal models, and engineered tissues. By combining nonlinear optical microscopy with digital holography, the project seeks to enhance imaging speed and obtain detailed spectral information without the need for labels or destructive methods. This innovative approach could lead to a better understanding of disease mechanisms at the molecular level.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers or other conditions that affect the tumor microenvironment.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve tumor microenvironments or those who are not undergoing treatment requiring advanced imaging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide advanced imaging techniques that improve the diagnosis and treatment of various cancers and other diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in combining nonlinear optical microscopy with digital holography, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.