Developing living biosensors for quick DNA analysis from raw samples
Official title: Point-of-care DNA diagnostics from raw samples
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11107665 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new type of living test that can quickly and easily find and analyze DNA from germs like E. coli and Salmonella right from raw samples, making it simpler for people to get accurate results without needing special tools or complicated steps.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 5, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $257,807 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EB037031-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11107665 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of urinary tract infections or other bacterial infections that are hard to diagnose with standard tests.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections that are easily diagnosed through conventional methods may not benefit significantly from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative living biosensors that can detect and analyze DNA directly from raw samples without the need for purification or specialized equipment. By utilizing natural bacterial processes, these biosensors will extract DNA and analyze it with high precision, providing results similar to common at-home tests. The goal is to improve the diagnosis of microbial infections, particularly those caused by difficult-to-detect pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella, by offering a rapid and accessible testing method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses of infections, improving patient outcomes and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using living biosensors for DNA analysis is innovative, similar biosensing techniques have shown promise in other areas of diagnostics, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cooper, Robert M — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Cooper, Robert M
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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.