Rapid, quick-result sensors using AI-designed proteins
Official title: Design of rapid and quantitative biosensors with computational protein design
Funded at Monod Bio, INC. · NIH-11410560 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A fast, single-step biosensor test using AI-designed proteins could give results in under 15 minutes without multiple wash steps.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Monod Bio, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $377,260 |
| NIH project number | 1R44GM161195-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11410560 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable to patient participation in this grant.
✕Less likely to help
This grant does not involve direct patient participation.
What this research studies
This project aims to revolutionize how biomarkers are detected in labs by replacing traditional antibody-based tests with NovoBodies designed by AI. The system uses a luminescent readout and a split luciferase setup to produce a quick signal on standard plate readers. Over two phases, the work focuses on boosting sensitivity, reducing time-to-result, and broadening the range of detectable biomarkers like CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, PSA, IL-2, TSH, and VEGF. The goal is to make fast, reliable assays that can be used in common research settings without needing specialized antibody development. The approach could shorten development times for new tests and enable more rapid decision-making in research and clinical contexts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, researchers could run faster biomarker tests, speeding scientific discovery and potential clinical decision-making.
How similar studies have gone: Previous biosensor approaches have faced time and specificity challenges, and AI-designed reagents offer a promising path forward.
Where this research is happening
-
Monod Bio, INC.
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quijano Rubio, Alfredo — Monod Bio, INC.
- Study coordinator: Quijano Rubio, Alfredo
Related research
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-
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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.