Developing sensors for real-time measurement of molecules in the body
Official title: Harnessing cooperativity to achieve high-precision in vivo measurements
Funded at University of California Santa Barbara · NIH-11112348 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new sensors that can quickly and accurately measure important substances in your body, like electrolytes and medications, to help doctors keep a close eye on your health in real-time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Barbara NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Barbara, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $583,543 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB035027-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112348 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients requiring close monitoring of drug levels or electrolyte balance, such as those with chronic illnesses or undergoing specific treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require real-time monitoring of biomolecules or those with stable conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating advanced sensors that can measure important molecules and ions in the body with high precision and in real-time. By using Electrochemical Aptamer-Based (EAB) sensors, the team aims to provide immediate information about critical health indicators, such as electrolyte levels and drug concentrations, which can be vital for patient care. The sensors have already shown promise in animal models and initial human trials, allowing for continuous monitoring over extended periods. The research will enhance the sensitivity of these sensors to detect small changes in target substances, improving their clinical utility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely monitoring of patients' health, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar sensor technologies, indicating a promising avenue for clinical applications.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Plaxco, Kevin W — University of California Santa Barbara
- Study coordinator: Plaxco, Kevin W
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.