Rapid, at-home test for galactosemia biomarker gal-1P
Official title: Developing a rapid and specific sensor for classic Galactosemia
Funded at Tufts University Medford · NIH-11455159 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new sensor device will let people with classic galactosemia and their caregivers monitor gal-1P levels at home or in clinics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Medford NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 7, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $413,130 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD120747-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11455159 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with classic galactosemia and their caregivers who would use home or clinic-based monitoring.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without access to caregiver support or those not engaged in routine monitoring may derive less direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project develops a low-cost, paper-based sensor that measures gal-1P levels using a specific enzyme and simple electrochemical readout. It aims to be easy to use by non-specialists, enabling routine monitoring alongside standard care. The study combines enzyme engineering with sensor design to create a reliable, accurate test that could be used at home or in clinical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the device could simplify monitoring of gal-1P, empowering families to track disease control more conveniently.
How similar studies have gone: Similar biosensor approaches have shown promise in biomarker monitoring, but this gal-1P specific test is novel for home use.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Medford
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nair, Nikhil Unni — Tufts University Medford
- Study coordinator: Nair, Nikhil Unni
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.