Translational Alliance: SMART-Endomicroscopy

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Optical 'biopsy' is a concept whereby traditional histology is replaced with non-invasive, real-time imaging techniques such as endomicroscopy. This new probe-based technology provides live microscopy images to the operator, allowing for immediate cellular tissue characterisation in situ and in vivo. With recent advances in endomicroscopy, including the latest technological progress from the EPSRC SMART-Endomicroscopy project, it is timely to address the potential of endomicroscopy for assessing gut dysfunction, particularly given the large burden of enteric disease in all countries and across different age groups. The aim of this project is to form a new translation alliance in collaboration with a leading industrial design SME (Smallfry Ltd) and the Gates Foundation, exploring applications of the new endomicroscopy/robotics technology in global health. In particular, and in line with the Gates Foundation Enteric and Diarrheal Diseases Strategy, it focuses on how low-cost (yet high impact/tech) robotic technologies can provide a practical optical biopsy system for gut disease. This rather unexpected application of our research would complement the planned pathways to impact of the original grant supported by EPSRC, making the technology relevant to both specialised and global health settings, addressing additional challenges imposed by frugal innovation.