Developing a rapid diagnostic test for eye infections using advanced sequencing technology

NGS based metagenomic screening of ocular infections

NIH-funded research Chromologic, LLC · NIH-11008714

This study is working on a quick and affordable test to help doctors find out what’s causing eye infections, especially for people with corneal ulcers or suspected endophthalmitis, so they can get the right treatment faster.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChromologic, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Monrovia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11008714 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create a fast and cost-effective diagnostic tool for ocular infections, utilizing deep sequencing technology to analyze microliter-sized biopsies. The EYE-Path™ system, developed in earlier phases, allows for the identification of pathogens in less than 24 hours and at a cost below $1000, significantly reducing the reliance on traditional culture methods that can take days. The project will involve validating this system in clinical settings, focusing on patients with corneal ulcers and suspected endophthalmitis, to ensure its effectiveness and readiness for clinical use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients experiencing symptoms of ocular infections, such as corneal ulcers or suspected endophthalmitis.

Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious eye conditions or those not presenting with ocular infection symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to quicker and more accurate diagnoses of eye infections, improving treatment outcomes and reducing unnecessary antibiotic use.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced sequencing technologies for rapid diagnostics, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Monrovia, 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.
Conditions Bacterial Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.