UC researchers secure seven-figure contract from Department of Defense

Founded by UC physicians including Opeolu Adeoye, MD, George Shaw, MD, PhD, and Matthew Flaherty, MD, this latest round of funding for Sense Neuro supports clinical trials set to commence next summer to advance their pioneering brain injury detection device, NeuroHawk.

The company has grown substantially since it launched, receiving over $18 million from various sources, such as the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command, the Cleveland Clinic, St. Elizabeth Healthcare and Queen City Angels.

"Sense Neuro Diagnostics embodies UC’s mission to transform research into real-world impact,” said Geoffrey Pinski, assistant vice president of Technology Transfer at UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub. “Their progress shows the potential for university IP to address urgent health care needs, bringing our innovations to those who need them most.”

Designed to detect traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and hemorrhages in specific regions of the brain, NeuroHawk’s technology aims to provide rapid, reliable diagnoses on the front lines of care. Clinical trials will span two-and-a-half years and involve local medical institutions including UC along with several testing sites across the country.

NeuroHawk is a noninvasive, portable wireless headset that passes radio frequency through the brain, scanning and analyzing how signals are affected by changes in brain tissue. The device offers rapid detection of TBIs, a crucial tool for active-duty military in the field when seconds matter.

Sense Neuro’s CEO, Geoffrey Klass, affirms the company’s commitment to addressing the significant medical need for quick and precise TBI diagnosis, a prevalent issue among U.S. service members.

With clinical trials on the horizon and a robust network of support, Sense Neuro Diagnostics is advancing its mission to revolutionize TBI diagnostics for both military and civilian applications. 

The NeuroHawk is poised to play a transformative role in the timely diagnosis and treatment of brain injuries.

Read the full story in the Cincinnati Business Courier. If subscription fees are required, email laradm@ucmail.uc.edu for a PDF of the story.

Featured image at top: Members of UC’s Army ROTC depart from Lunken Airport by Chinook and Blackhawk helicopter for a weekend drill. Photo/Abby Hardesty