Developing a rapid diagnostic test for eye infections using advanced sequencing technology
Official title: NGS based metagenomic screening of ocular infections
Funded at Chromologic, LLC · NIH-11008714 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Chromologic, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Monrovia, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $803,560 |
| NIH project number | 2R42EY033266-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008714 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients experiencing symptoms of ocular infections, such as corneal ulcers or suspected endophthalmitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-infectious eye conditions or those not presenting with ocular infection symptoms may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Chromologic, LLC
Monrovia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kyubwa, Espoir — Chromologic, LLC
- Study coordinator: Kyubwa, Espoir
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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.