Measuring itch using artificial intelligence and radio signals
Developing an Objective and Quantifiable Measure of Itch Using Artificial Intelligence and Radio Signals
This study is testing a new way to measure chronic itch using a special wireless sensor that tracks scratching and how it affects sleep, aiming to help people, especially kids and those with cognitive challenges, get better treatments for their itch.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914108 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new method for objectively measuring chronic itch, which affects a significant portion of the population and severely impacts quality of life. By utilizing a novel wireless sensor, the study will capture scratching activity and assess its effects on sleep quality. This approach addresses the limitations of current self-assessment methods, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and those with cognitive impairments. The goal is to create a reliable metric that can improve the evaluation of treatments for chronic itch.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and individuals with cognitive impairments who experience chronic itch.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic itch or have no related sleep disturbances may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better assessment and treatment options for patients suffering from chronic itch.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using artificial intelligence and wireless sensors for measuring itch is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of chronic symptom assessment.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Katabi, Dina — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Katabi, Dina
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 below.