I-Corps: Translation Potential of a Point-of-Care Diagnostic for Preeclampsia

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $50,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This I-Corps project is based on the development of a diagnostic test for preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication associated with high blood pressure. Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and is estimated to occur in up to 10% of all pregnancies. When left untreated, preeclampsia can result in serious and sometimes fatal complications including stroke, seizure, kidney disease, heart disease, and preterm birth. Diagnosis of preeclampsia remains a significant challenge. The current diagnostic standard for preeclampsia relies on insensitive tests and outdated standards, allowing diagnosis only after evidence of organ damage in the mother. Also, preeclampsia tests generally need to be performed in clinical labs by trained personnel, leading to increased costs, decreased accessibility, and decreased likelihood of catching preeclampsia before it becomes dangerous to mother and fetus. This technology addresses these challenges by providing a preeclampsia diagnostic that can be used at home by untrained personnel with just a finger-stick volume of blood that is no more difficult to interpret than an at-home COVID test. This technology may improve detection, treatment, and management of preeclampsia and improve the outcomes of pregnant individuals with this condition. This I-Corps project utilizes experiential learning coupled with a first-hand investigation of the industry ecosystem to assess the translation potential of a preeclampsia diagnostic that can

Key facts

NSF award ID
2521137
Awardee
Georgia Tech Research Corporation (GA)
SAM.gov UEI
EMW9FC8J3HN4
PI
Mark P Styczynski
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
INSTRUMENTATION & DIAGNOSTICS
Estimated total
$50,000
Funds obligated
$50,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
06/15/2025 → 05/31/2027