Developing a new microscope for detailed imaging of infectious diseases
Official title: Novel Optical Scanning Probe Microscope for Biomedical Chemical Imaging with Ultra-High Spatial Resolution and Chemical Sensitivity
Funded at Actoprobe, LLC · NIH-10922631 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new type of microscope that can see tiny details and identify single molecules linked to infectious diseases, which could help doctors find and treat infections faster and more accurately than current methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Actoprobe, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $295,308 |
| NIH project number | 1R43EB035988-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10922631 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with infections caused by difficult-to-detect pathogens, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with well-characterized infections that can be easily diagnosed using existing methods may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a novel optical scanning probe microscope that can achieve ultra-high spatial resolution and chemical sensitivity. By utilizing advanced techniques like scanning near-field optical microscopy and tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, the project aims to visualize and identify single molecules related to infectious diseases. This could significantly improve the detection of pathogens, which is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The approach seeks to overcome the limitations of traditional methods that often rely on growing cultures or specific antibodies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate identification of infectious agents, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach is innovative, similar technologies have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Actoprobe, LLC
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ukhanov, Alexander a — Actoprobe, LLC
- Study coordinator: Ukhanov, Alexander a
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.