Developing tiny chiplets for fast and easy COVID-19 testing

Rapidly Adaptable and Mass-Producible Microscopic Chiplets for Minimally-Instrumented Respiratory Viral Screening

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10889146

This study is testing a new, easy-to-use device that can quickly check for respiratory viruses like COVID-19 using tiny chiplets, so you can get your test results right away, making it easier for everyone to stay safe during outbreaks.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889146 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating microscopic chiplets that can quickly and accurately screen for respiratory viral infections, including COVID-19. The chiplets will use light-powered circuits with specific receptors to detect viruses in patient samples. By utilizing a simple handheld device, such as a cellphone, patients can receive immediate results from their tests. This innovative approach aims to make viral screening scalable, inexpensive, and capable of testing millions of individuals daily during pandemics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who may be at risk for respiratory viral infections, particularly during pandemic situations.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for respiratory viral infections or those who do not require frequent testing may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a rapid and accessible method for widespread COVID-19 testing, helping to control outbreaks effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing rapid diagnostic tools for viral infections, indicating that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 Airway infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.