Method for Real-time Observation of Bio-mineralisation by using Quantum Nano-Diamonds

• Project/Area Number: 25K17361
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 13040:Biophysics, chemical physics and soft matter physics-related
• Research Institution: Okayama University
• Principal Investigator: RATHI Ashutosh 岡山大学, 環境生命自然科学学域, 特任助教 (91007236)
• Project Period (FY): 2025-04-01 – 2027-03-31
• Project Status: Granted (Fiscal Year 2025)
• Budget Amount: ¥4,810,000 (Direct Cost: ¥3,700,000、Indirect Cost: ¥1,110,000); Fiscal Year 2026: ¥1,950,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,500,000、Indirect Cost: ¥450,000); Fiscal Year 2025: ¥2,860,000 (Direct Cost: ¥2,200,000、Indirect Cost: ¥660,000)
• Keywords: Quantum Sensing / Nanodiamond Sensors / Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers / Heme Crystallization / Real-time Bio-Sensing

Outline of Research at the Start

This research develops a real-time sensing method using quantum nanodiamonds to track the formation of malaria pigment crystals. By enabling early-stage crystal monitoring, it advances precise biosensing technologies - a step toward targeted antimalarial therapies.