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A device to measure pupillary light reflex in infants and toddlers

IP Title

DEVICE TO MEASURE PUPILLARY LIGHT REFLEX IN INFANTS AND TODDLERS

Detailed Technology Description

None

Application Date

Mar 22, 2013

Application No.

9,314,157

Others

*Abstract

Pupillary Light Reflex Detection Device for Early Childhood Neurodevelopment ScreeningAutism spectrum disorder has been recognized as a national public health concern with an increasingly higher prevalence rate, which is estimated at 1 in 88 births and is increasing at a rate of 10-17% per year. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can usually be reliably diagnosed by age 2, though research suggests that some screening tests can be helpful at 18 months or even younger. Current, methods require that the child sit still or be restrained and wear headgear in order for measurements to be taken. It is difficult to have young children or children with ASD remain still during testing or wear headgear that is often associated with testing. Furthermore, it is traumatic for children to be restrained during testing. Studies have shown that early intervention is very effective in improving language, behavior and even IQ levels in children with autism. A device that would make testing easy for children would be of great value.The current invention developed by researchers at the University of Missouri is a novel device used to measure pupillary light reflex (PLR) in infants and young children that does not require restraint or headgear. PLR is significantly different between children with ASD and normally developing children. The device can remotely and effectively measure PLR in children within seconds without the child even being aware that a test is occurring. POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATIONS• Screening for neuro-developmental disorders• Neuro-opthalmology of pupil functionsMAIN ADVANTAGES OF INVENTION• Simple, non-contact and low-cost examination of brain functions• Test for objective monitoring of infants neuro-developmental progressSTATE OF DEVELOPMENTAdditional data collection has begun for ages 2 - 6. Additional development is needed for commercialization of the device. LICENSING POTENTIALUniversity seeks development partner or licensee with potential to commercializePATENT STATUS: Provisional application filedINVENTORS: Gary Yao and Judith H. MilesCONTACT INFORMATION:Samuel E. Bish, PhD; bishs@missouri.edu; 573-882-5016

*IP Issue Date

Apr 19, 2016

*Principal Investigator

Name: Gang Yao

Department:

Name: Judith Miles

Department:

Name: Dinalankara Dinalankara, Student

Department:

Country/Region

USA