Noninvasive hand scan to check bone quality
Raman spectroscopic platform for transcutaneous monitoring of bone quality
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11323131
This project tests a light-based hand scan to find people who may have weak bones and need follow-up care.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11323131 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would get a quick, noninvasive scan of the bones in your hand using a light-based Raman technique that reads chemical signals through the skin. The team developed algorithms to remove signals from overlying soft tissue so the device can focus on bone properties. They have strong results in animal models and are adapting the hardware and software to make reliable measurements in people at clinics or primary care offices. The goal is to flag people who should get a standard DXA scan and earlier treatment to lower fracture risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are adults at risk for low bone density—for example older adults or postmenopausal women, or anyone with clinical risk factors who has not recently had a DXA scan.
Not a fit: People with heavy soft tissue or structural problems at the measurement site (severe hand deformities or nearby metal implants) or those already diagnosed and treated for osteoporosis may not gain additional benefit from the scan.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help detect osteoporosis risk earlier and lead to timely treatment to prevent fractures.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical animal studies showed strong correlations between Raman signals and bone strength, but noninvasive use on people is a new step and still being tested.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BERGER, ANDREW J — UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: BERGER, ANDREW J
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.