Improving HIV testing using smartphone technology and glowstick chemistry
Official title: Smartphone-based POC Testing for HIV Using Glowstick Chemistry
Funded at University of Houston · NIH-11002711 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, easy-to-use HIV test that glows like a glowstick, so you can check for the virus at home or in your community, and even get results on your smartphone without needing fancy equipment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | January 6, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $392,731 |
| NIH project number | 5R61AI174294-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002711 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for HIV, particularly those who may benefit from home testing or live in areas with limited access to healthcare.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already receiving effective HIV treatment and have regular access to healthcare services may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance HIV testing by developing a new type of lateral flow assay that utilizes glowstick chemistry to improve sensitivity. The approach involves creating a point-of-care test that can be easily used at home or in community settings, allowing for early detection of HIV infections. By integrating this technology with a smartphone, patients can receive accurate results without the need for complex equipment. The study will focus on creating a user-friendly testing method that can detect low levels of the virus in blood samples.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accessible and accurate HIV testing, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using innovative technologies for point-of-care testing, suggesting that this approach could be successful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Willson, Richard — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Willson, Richard
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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.