Pathology (Biopsies and Blood Tests)
Pathology integrates histology, cytology, molecular diagnostics, and hematology to translate tissue biopsies and blood analyses into actionable clinical intelligence. Rapid point‑of‑injury and near‑patient platforms detect infection, coagulopathy, ischemia, oncologic markers, and biologic exposures to guide triage, antimicrobial stewardship, transfusion, and prolonged‑field‑care decisions.
Technical Challenges
Limited diagnostic capacity and long turnaround times in austere, forward, or prolonged‑field environments.
Preserving sample integrity and biosafety during transport and storage without reliable cold chain.
Shortage of trained pathologists and laboratory personnel at the point of care; reliance on central labs.
Interference from battlefield factors (polytrauma, hemostatic derangements, contaminants) that confound interpretation.
Rapid identification of novel pathogens and antimicrobial resistance in resource‑limited settings.
Emerging Opportunities
Robust, portable histology and cytology methods that deliver near‑real‑time microscopy or AI‑assisted reads.
Minimally invasive, low‑power biopsy and blood sampling devices that minimize contamination and morbidity.
Integrated sample stabilization and ambient‑temperature preservation technologies to eliminate cold chain dependence.
Validated, deployable metagenomic or multiplexed pathogen ID with actionable antimicrobial susceptibility insights.
Seamless clinical decision‑support that links pathology outputs to battlefield triage, transfusion, and evacuation protocols.
Current and Emerging Technologies in Pathology (Biopsies and Blood Tests)
Point‑of‑care molecular diagnostics (PCR, isothermal, CRISPR)
Rapid nucleic acid detection platforms for pathogen ID, resistance markers, and select molecular oncology targets that operate with minimal sample prep and deliver results at the point of care.
Microfluidic lab‑on‑chip hematology and immunoassays
Compact cartridges perform complete blood counts, coagulation screening, and multiplexed antigen/antibody assays from small volumes for rapid assessment of coagulopathy, infection, and inflammation.
Portable digital pathology and AI‑assisted image analysis
Field‑deployable slide scanners, stainless histology methods, and machine‑learning algorithms that accelerate biopsy interpretation, tumor margin assessment, and detection of infectious organisms.
Liquid biopsy (cfDNA, CTCs) and biomarker panels
Cell‑free DNA, circulating tumor cell assays, and multiplex protein/miRNA panels enable minimally invasive surveillance for malignancy, tissue injury, graft rejection, and systemic infection.
Portable flow cytometry and rapid immunophenotyping
Compact cytometers and microfluidic immunoassays provide immune profiling for sepsis risk stratification, transfusion planning, and biologic threat characterization.
Nanopore and rapid metagenomic sequencing
On‑site sequencing enables detection of novel or unexpected pathogens and genomic markers of resistance, supporting outbreak response and force health protection.
Raman spectroscopy and label‑free optical diagnostics
Rapid chemical fingerprinting of tissue or blood for immediate assessment of ischemia, infection, or foreign‑material contamination without extensive lab processing.
Minimally invasive biopsy devices and ambient stabilization
Needle‑scale sampling tools, tissue‑preservation matrices, and ambient‑temperature stabilization chemistries that preserve nucleic acids and morphology for delayed analysis.
Importance to Military Medicine
Tactical triage and combat casualty care
Rapid pathology narrows differential diagnoses at the point of injury, guiding hemorrhage control, transfusion decisions, and damage‑control interventions.
Prolonged and distributed care
Near‑patient biopsy and blood analysis permit ongoing monitoring and condition‑specific therapy when evacuation is delayed or resources are limited.
Force health protection and biodefense
Early detection of infectious agents, resistance patterns, and biologic exposures preserves readiness and enables rapid public‑health interventions.
Operational readiness and surveillance
Routine and episodic pathology testing supports pre‑deployment screening, disease surveillance, and recovery monitoring to maintain force capability.
Alignment with the MTEC Mission
Accelerates translation of deployable diagnostics consistent with MTEC’s goal to move military‑relevant medical technologies rapidly into operational use.
Supports multidisciplinary consortia and public–private partnerships to integrate engineering, clinical pathology, and operational medicine expertise.
Prioritizes solutions with dual military and civilian benefit—improving both battlefield care and broader health system resilience.
Aligns with DoD priorities for force health protection, biodefense, and prolonged/distributed care capabilities in austere settings.
Dual-Use (Military + Civilian) Applications
Civilian hospitals and rural clinics benefit from portable pathology for faster diagnostics, reducing referrals and improving time‑to‑treatment.
Public‑health surveillance and outbreak response leverage deployable sequencing and multiplexed assays for rapid containment and epidemiology.
Oncology and transplant medicine adopt liquid biopsy and rapid histology advances to improve screening, monitoring, and remote follow‑up.
Dual‑use devices lower per‑unit costs and accelerate regulatory pathways by addressing both military operational needs and civilian market demand.
Explore MTEC Members with Pathology (Biopsies and Blood Tests) Capabilities
MTEC members—academic pathology labs, diagnostics companies, engineering partners, and military clinicians—bring complementary strengths in translational research, prototyping, clinical validation, and regulatory strategy.
Consortium capabilities accelerate milestone‑driven development, field testing in realistic operational scenarios, and rapid iteration based on end‑user feedback.
Explore member profiles to identify partners with pathology assay development, ambient stabilization chemistry, digital pathology AI, sequencing, and device miniaturization expertise.
75 Members with Pathology (Biopsies and Blood Tests) capabilities.
Georgia Southern University is a vibrant institution with over 26,100 students across three campuses in Statesboro, Savannah, and Hinesville. The university offers 132 degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels, emphasizing student success, community impact, and research excellence. With a commitment to inclusivity and engagement, Georgia Southern fosters a supportive environment for diverse learners, including military-affiliated and adult students. The university is dedicated to transforming lives through education and community engagement, aligning its programs with regional needs. Additionally, Georgia Southern provides accelerated pathways for students to fast-track their master's degrees, enhancing educational opportunities. The university also emphasizes career readiness and public impact research, preparing students for successful careers and contributing to community development.
Maverick Labs is a U.S.-based biotechnology and materials science company specializing in advanced protein design, synthetic biology, and microbial engineering. The company operates through three tightly integrated subsidiaries—Maverick Metals, Maverick Energy, and the Maverick Bio-Gene Therapy Translational Unit—each of which applies a shared technological foundation to tackle critical challenges across national defense, energy independence, and strategic material access. Together, they develop scalable, field-ready solutions that reinforce the United States’ industrial resilience and military readiness through biotechnology-driven innovation.
Auburn University Research & Economic Development is dedicated to advancing research and economic growth through a collaborative effort among its various colleges and departments. The organization focuses on fostering innovation, supporting faculty and student research, and facilitating partnerships with industry and government to address societal challenges and enhance the quality of life. Recent initiatives include the launch of the Team Science Series to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of the Gulf Coast Engineering Research Station to address coastal environmental challenges.
The Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research (I3R) at the University of Arkansas is dedicated to pioneering solutions to complex societal challenges through convergence research. With a mission to advance research excellence and stimulate economic development, I3R focuses on deploying innovations at scale through collaboration across various sectors, including academia, industry, and government.
The University of Chicago is a prestigious urban research university committed to rigorous inquiry and intellectual freedom. Founded in 1890, it has produced numerous Nobel laureates and is known for its transformative education and groundbreaking research across various fields. The university fosters an inclusive and diverse learning environment, encouraging participation from all community members.
Boston University is a major research institution committed to leading breakthroughs across various disciplines. The Office of Research supports and advances research excellence, fostering collaboration among researchers, industry partners, and government leaders to address significant societal challenges.
Baylor University is a preeminent Christian research university committed to addressing the world's most meaningful challenges through top-tier research and scholarship. Recognized as an R1 research institution, Baylor focuses on infusing its distinct Christian mission into its research initiatives, fostering a commitment to excellence and innovation.
TIMSER S.A.P.I. de C.V. is a biomedical company in Mexico developing accessible and non-invasive blood-based screening solutions for early detection of cervical cancer and its precursor lesions. The company leverages more than a decade of research to advance clinically validated molecular diagnostics using protein biomarkers identified through proteomics and molecular biology approaches. These technologies address barriers to traditional screening and are backed by extensive national and international patent coverage and clinical trial validation involving hundreds of participants.
Base Pair Biotechnologies specializes in custom aptamer discovery and development for research, diagnostics, therapeutics, and industrial applications. The company leverages proprietary multiplex selection, advanced bioinformatics, and chemical modification techniques to develop high-affinity and selective nucleic acid aptamers. Base Pair enables affinity reagent development, biosensor design, and molecular detection for a broad range of targets and partners across academia and industry.
Simbex is a leading partner in medical device and consumer health product design and development, recognized for transforming complex ideas into commercially successful solutions. With a multidisciplinary team, Simbex excels in engineering, product design, software, data analytics, and commercialization strategy, supporting innovators from concept to market. Their mission is to deliver impactful medical devices and consumer health products that improve health outcomes and quality of life. Simbex is known for its holistic approach, deep regulatory expertise, and commitment to innovation and excellence in the health technology sector. The company is also active in thought leadership, regularly publishing regulatory and reimbursement updates, and hosting educational webinars for the MedTech community. Simbex maintains a robust Quality Management System compliant with ISO 13485 and FDA 21 CFR 820, ensuring high standards in product development. The company is also committed to supporting diversity in MedTech, including initiatives for women in the sector. Simbex's leadership and advisory team bring decades of experience in biomedical engineering, commercialization, regulatory affairs, and technology innovation, further strengthening its position as a trusted partner in the MedTech ecosystem.
Solventum is a healthcare company dedicated to enabling better, smarter, and safer healthcare solutions. With a legacy of innovation, Solventum focuses on improving patient outcomes through advanced medical technologies, oral care solutions, health information technology, and purification and filtration systems.
Smith+Nephew is a portfolio medical technology company focused on the repair, regeneration, and replacement of soft and hard tissue. The company aims to restore people's bodies and their self-belief by using technology to take the limits off living. With a commitment to medical education and improving patient outcomes, Smith+Nephew operates in over 100 countries and is dedicated to sustainability and community health. Their purpose is to promote health and wellbeing, not just through their products but also by ensuring a positive impact on society and the environment. Smith+Nephew is also committed to increasing diversity within the medical device industry through initiatives like the Orthopaedics for All global advisory board.
The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is Maryland’s public health, law, and human services university. It is dedicated to improving the human condition and serving the public good through education, research, clinical care, and service. UMB is the founding campus of the University System of Maryland and offers a wide range of professional degrees in health care, human services, and law.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is a top doctoral and research institution located in Wilmington, North Carolina. Established in 1947, UNCW has grown to serve nearly 18,000 students and employs about 2,500 staff. The university is dedicated to providing a powerful academic experience that fosters creative inquiry, critical thinking, and thoughtful expression in a beautiful coastal setting. UNCW is committed to educational excellence, community engagement, and global connections, making it a vibrant part of the southeastern North Carolina community. UNCW also emphasizes the importance of freedom of expression and mutual respect within its diverse community.
The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is dedicated to transforming today's learners into tomorrow's leaders through innovative education, research, and community engagement. With over 125 academic programs, UMKC fosters a diverse and inclusive environment that empowers students to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in their communities.
Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world, dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. With a history of innovation spanning nearly 150 years, Mayo Clinic is committed to transforming healthcare through research, education, and compassionate care, ensuring that the best possible treatment is available to everyone.
University of California San Francisco
TemPredict: AI-Driven Wearable Monitoring for Early Illness Detection and Warfighter Readiness
TemPredict: AI wearables detect early illness and health risks to support warfighter readiness.
Arizona State University
ASU Crosscutting Technologies to Enhance Military Medical Readiness and Resilience
Dr. Rachel Cassalia leads MTEC-supported efforts at ASU to shift military health from reactive care to proactive readiness through data-driven prevention.
University of Pittsburgh
Topical Metformin Lotion for Tendinopathy Prevention
University of Pittsburgh study shows topical metformin prevents overuse tendon injury. This work was sponsored through MTEC project 22-02-MPAI-014.
Theradaptive
Theradaptive’s RESTORE Trial Initiation for OsteoAdapt™ DE
Theradaptive launches RESTORE Phase I/II trial of OsteoAdapt™ DE for faster, precision bone healing in craniofacial injuries. MTEC-funded study targets improved recovery for military and civilian patients.