SBIR Phase I: Optical Spectroscopy for Colon Cancer Screening without Colonoscopy

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I research project aims to develop an optical technology for population-wide colon cancer screening by means of a simple, inexpensive, minimally intrusive and accurate optical rectal test that would forego the need for bowel cleansing. The technology is based on low-coherence enhanced backscattering (LEBS), an optical technique which enables the sensing of tissue micro-architectural correlates of pathological changes in otherwise normal mucosa. Performance of colon cancer screens by primary care providers will increase the likelihood of early detection and treatment of this important disease. Moreover, the availability of the technology will also decrease the cost associated with this disease by enabling the selection of at-risk individuals by the primary care provider for referral to the gastroenterologist for further follow-up.