Using laser technology to improve anal cancer screening for HIV-positive patients
Official title: Raman-enhanced spectroscopy (RESpect) for anal dysplasia in HIV-positive patients
Funded at University of Hawaii at Manoa · NIH-9856763 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, gentle way to check for anal dysplasia in people with HIV, using a special laser technique that could make screenings easier and more comfortable than the usual methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Honolulu, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2020 |
| Award (this year) | $400,414 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA244078-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-9856763 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-positive individuals, particularly men, who are at high risk for anal dysplasia and cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not HIV-positive or those who do not have a history of anal dysplasia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method called Raman-enhanced spectroscopy (RESpect) to screen for anal dysplasia in HIV-positive individuals, who are at a significantly higher risk for anal cancer. The study aims to develop a less invasive alternative to current screening methods, which often involve uncomfortable biopsies. By analyzing the chemical composition of cells and tissues with laser technology, the research seeks to provide a more accurate and patient-friendly screening option. This innovative approach could lead to better prevention strategies for anal cancer in this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective and less invasive screening method for anal cancer, improving early detection and patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of Raman-enhanced spectroscopy is a novel approach in this context, similar technologies have shown promise in other areas of cancer detection.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agsalda-Garcia, Melissa Anne — University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Study coordinator: Agsalda-Garcia, Melissa Anne
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.