Quick, low-cost test for early head and neck cancer
RAPID System for Early Detection of Head and Neck Cancer in Low-Resource Settings
A portable, nanotechnology-based test that looks for signs of head and neck cancer using a non‑invasive swab or small tissue sample, aimed at people in low-resource communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11332475 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would have a simple brush or small tissue sample taken from a suspicious area in the mouth or throat, and the sample would be processed on a handheld device called RAPID. The device uses ultrabright SERS "nanorattle" probes and a lab-on-a-stick format to detect multiple molecular markers linked to squamous cell carcinoma. The research team will test the method on real clinical samples to make sure it gives accurate results and can give a fast sample-to-answer output. The goal is a low-cost, portable tool that can be used in clinics with limited lab support to catch cancers earlier.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults at risk for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma—for example smokers, people with HPV exposure, or those with visible or symptomatic lesions—who can provide a brush cytology or small tissue sample.
Not a fit: People without suspicious head or neck lesions or those with conditions unrelated to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma are unlikely to benefit directly from this diagnostic tool.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could make early detection of head and neck cancers more available in underserved areas, potentially improving survival and reducing invasive procedures.
How similar studies have performed: Related point-of-care molecular diagnostics have shown promise, but using ultrabright SERS nanorattle probes for multiplexed detection in patients is a relatively new and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vo-Dinh, Tuan — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Vo-Dinh, Tuan
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.