NIT Rourkela Researchers Develop AI-Powered Microscopy Technology for Faster Disease Detection

Bhubaneswar, May 28: Researchers from the Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela, in collaboration with institute-incubated startup Glowvista Instruments Private Limited, have developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered autofocusing technology aimed at improving microscopic imaging for biomedical diagnostic applications.

The innovative technology, which enables rapid, accurate and repeatable microscopic imaging with minimal human intervention, has been granted a patent titled “A Method for Autofocusing in Optofluidic Microsystems and Processes” (Patent No. 589270; Application No. 202431080016).

Microscopy is a critical tool in modern healthcare and biomedical research, helping doctors and scientists study cells, tissues, microorganisms and other biological structures invisible to the naked eye. It plays an essential role in disease diagnosis, drug development, biomedical research and point-of-care testing.

The research team at NIT Rourkela has developed an advanced optofluidic digital microscopy platform by integrating deep-learning algorithms with optical imaging and automated motion-control systems. The AI-enabled platform continuously analyses microscopic images in real time and automatically adjusts focus through an intelligent feedback mechanism. This significantly reduces manual effort while enhancing imaging precision and efficiency.

The team behind the innovation includes Prof. Earu Banoth, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering and Founder & Director (Non-Executive) of Glowvista Instruments Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Shaik Ahmadsaidulu, research graduate at NIT Rourkela; along with startup members Mr. Amol Lalchand Salve, Design Engineer and Mr. Padmanaban Selvakumar, Product Manager.

Developed at an estimated cost of around Rs 1.20 lakh, the system has shown promising results during laboratory-scale testing. The technology successfully detected acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (blood cancer), malaria and also performed complete blood cell count classification under both 5-class and 7-class categorisation models.

Speaking about the innovation, Prof. Banoth said the long-term goal of the team is to create a simple handheld diagnostic device capable of delivering results comparable to expensive imported automated microscopy systems. He added that the technology is also being expanded for broader biomedical applications beyond conventional flow cytometers and imaging flow cytometers.

The project received research grants from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Government of India.

The development marks another significant achievement for NIT Rourkela in the field of healthcare technology and highlights Odisha’s growing contribution to AI-driven biomedical innovation.