Manu Prakash is well aware of the trials and tribulations facing malaria-infected individuals in developing nations. Oftentimes funds are not in place for appropriate equipment to treat these people, but Prakash is hoping to change this ever so slightly by inventing a computer-generated, origami-like microscope to help identify and treat specific strands of the disease.
The microscope is extremely durable, as Manu Prakash shows by dunking the device in water and even jumping on it at one point. The best part about this instrument is the cost: no more than 55 cents to produce. Instead of being held back by lack of finances, doctors in third world countries would be able to treat individuals faster with this technology, and ultimately save lives by distributing the appropriate medicine for malaria-infected individuals faster.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Affordable Microscopy
- Developing low-cost microscopy solutions can improve healthcare access in developing nations.
- Origami-like Instruments
- Designing origami-like instruments can provide portable and durable tools for healthcare professionals in remote areas.
- Technology for Healthcare Equality
- Advancing technology in healthcare can contribute to reducing health disparities between developed and developing nations.
Where This Applies
- Medical Devices
- The medical device industry can explore cost-effective innovations to improve healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings.
- Biotechnology
- Biotech companies can leverage origami-inspired designs for developing efficient and affordable laboratory equipment.
- Healthcare Technology
- The healthcare technology sector can focus on creating accessible and ruggedized equipment for remote medical diagnostics and treatment.
