The Need: Noninvasive Biodosimetry Technology for Radiation Exposure Detection

Radiation exposure poses significant health risks, including cancer and other illnesses, making it crucial for clinicians to accurately measure and assess the extent of radiation exposure. Existing methods often require invasive procedures and may not detect exposure at lower dose ranges. In response to this commercial need,

The Technology: Rapid and Accurate Radiation Biodosimetry Solutions

The OSUCCC – James research effort, in partnership with the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA), aims to develop noninvasive methods for measuring radiation exposure levels through biomarkers detectable in skin and hair. The technology expands upon previous work that demonstrated the effectiveness of a miRNA-based biodosimetry test for diagnosing radiation sickness through a single drop of blood. The new initiative will explore Raman spectroscopy and mass spectrometry-based methods, as well as changes in the microbiome, to enhance the accuracy and speed of biodosimetry.

Commercial Applications:

• Medical Settings: The technology enables clinicians to rapidly and noninvasively assess radiation exposure in patients who have undergone radiotherapy or medical imaging procedures, such as CT scans, to facilitate timely mitigation of risks.
• Military and Homeland Security: In military and security settings, the technology can help assess potential radiation exposure due to accidental or intentional release of radioactive materials, aiding in early detection and risk assessment.
• Environmental and Occupational Monitoring: The technology can be used to monitor individuals who are exposed to radiation in natural environmental or occupational settings, providing valuable data for assessing long-term health risks.

Benefits/Advantages:

• Noninvasive Detection: The technology allows for the collection of biomarkers from skin and hair, eliminating the need for invasive procedures and providing a more comfortable experience for patients.
• Rapid Assessment: With the ability to detect radiation exposure levels rapidly, medical professionals can quickly intervene to mitigate potential health consequences.
• Enhanced Accuracy: By exploring Raman spectroscopy and mass spectrometry-based methods, the technology aims to improve the accuracy of radiation biodosimetry, leading to more precise assessments of exposure levels.
• Multiple Disciplinary Collaboration: The project brings together experts from different fields, including data scientists from Battelle Memorial Institute, to foster interdisciplinary research and enhance the effectiveness of the technology.
• National Security Applications: The technology's potential applications in military and homeland security settings align with the IARPA's mission to empower the intelligence community and enhance national security.