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Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)


New fluorescent nanosensor enables rapid, first-of-its-kind detection of key gut health biomarker

Researchers developed a novel fluorescent nanosensor to detect IPA, an emerging biomarker linked to gut health and disease. The sensor offers rapid detection within minutes, distinguishing IPA from closely related metabolites, enabling accurate measurement even in complex biological environments.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateJun 2, 2026

SMART develops rapid iron measurement to improve cartilage repair through cell therapy

Researchers developed a rapid and non-destructive method to monitor iron flux in mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) using micromagnetic resonance relaxometry (µMRR). This breakthrough enables real-time insights into MSC's ability to form quality cartilage tissue, paving the way for more consistent manufacturing of MSC-based therapy.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2026

SMART study reveals strategic flight connections key to attracting global business and investment

A new study by SMART has identified a strong statistical association between global air connectivity and patterns of multinational corporations' investments. The research found that few layovers meant more subsidiaries, with cities having better flight connections to influential hubs outperforming those with less-connected destinations.

SMART launches new research center to develop world’s first wearable ultrasound imaging system for real-time monitoring of chronic conditions

The Singapore-MIT Alliance has launched a new research center to develop the world's first wearable ultrasound imaging system, enabling real-time monitoring of chronic conditions like hypertension and heart failure. The system will be validated through clinical trials at Tan Tock Seng Hospital.

SMART researchers develop first-of-its-kind RNA tool to advance cancer and infectious disease research and treatment

Researchers at SMART Alliance for Research and Technology developed a powerful tool to scan thousands of biological samples and detect transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) modifications, which help control cell growth and response to diseases. The tool opens up new possibilities for disease research, diagnostics, and treatment development.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2025

SMART launches new research group WISDOM to pioneer technologies that will help machines “see” like humans

The Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology has launched the Wafer-scale Integrated Sensing Devices based on Optoelectronic Metasurfaces (WISDOM) research group, focusing on developing ultra-thin sensing devices for machines to perceive depth and spatial detail like human vision. This multi-million-dollar program aims to adv...

SMART researchers develop novel UV and machine learning-aided method to detect microbial contamination in cell cultures

A new method using UV light and machine learning can detect microbial contamination in cell cultures, providing a quicker yes/no assessment within 30 minutes. This technology aims to reduce the time spent on sterility tests, making it crucial for life-saving treatments.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2025

SMART researchers pioneer novel method to enhance effectiveness of MSC therapy for cartilage repair

Researchers developed a novel method to enhance the efficacy of MSC-based therapy for articular cartilage repair by adding ascorbic acid during MSC expansion. The addition improved chondrogenic differentiation, reduced cell heterogeneity, and showed a robust shift in metabolic profile.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Smart researchers unveil study linking EV charging stations to increased local business activity

A study by Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology found that installing EVCS boosted spending at nearby establishments by 1.4% in 2019, leading to an overall increase of USD 6.7 million. Strategically placed EVCS also stimulated consumer spending in underprivileged areas, creating potential catalysts for economic growth.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 10, 2024

SMART breakthrough research identifies mechanism behind drug resistance in malaria parasite

A recent study reveals that a cellular process called transfer Ribonucleic acid (tRNA) modification influences the malaria parasite’s ability to develop resistance. This breakthrough discovery could help researchers develop new drugs to combat resistance and better tools for studying RNA modifications.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2024

SMART researchers pioneer sensor multiplexing for real-time decoding of different plant stresses

SMART researchers develop a nanosensor that selectively detects salicylic acid in live plants, vital for stress response. The sensor combines sensors for H₂O₂ and salicylic acid, enabling simultaneous monitoring of plant hormones and aiding in early diagnoses to improve crop resilience.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024

SMART and NTU Singapore researchers develop method to measure carbon stored in bogs, aiding peatland restoration efforts

Researchers at SMART and NTU Singapore have developed a method to accurately measure the amount of carbon stored in bogs, which aids peatland restoration efforts. The new method uses satellite data and reduces the need for on-site sampling, making it possible to describe and compare the shape of bogs worldwide.

SMART researchers pave the way for faster and safer T-cell therapy through novel contamination-detection method

A novel contamination-detection method enables faster and safer T-cell therapy production, reducing the risk for patients and speeding up treatment. The method uses cutting-edge technology to identify harmful microorganisms within 24 hours.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 27, 2023

SMART researchers uncover novel bacterial communication system to combat antimicrobial resistance

A novel stress signalling system has been discovered by SMART researchers, enabling bacteria cells to adapt and survive against the immune system and certain antibiotics. The breakthrough discovery of RlmN as a stress sensor may lead to the development of new therapies to combat antimicrobial resistance.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2023

SMART researchers discover novel combination therapy to counter antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections

SMART researchers have discovered a novel combination therapy using rifaximin and clarithromycin to treat antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections. The study found that rifaximin potentiates clarithromycin against M. abscessus, increasing its sensitivity and effectiveness in killing the bacteria.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalJAC-Antimicrobial Resistance·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

[Press Release] SMART researchers develop the world's first microneedle-based drug delivery technique for plants

Researchers have developed a microneedle-based drug delivery technique for plants, which can precisely deliver controlled amounts of agrochemicals to specific plant tissues. This method has the potential to improve crop quality and disease management while minimizing resource wastage and environmental contamination.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2023

SMART researchers develop novel combination bacterium- and host-targeted therapy for treating vancomycin-resistant bacterial infections

Researchers develop a novel combination therapy using mitoxantrone and vancomycin to treat vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis (VRE) infections. The therapy stimulates the host immune system, accelerating wound healing and killing bacteria more effectively.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2023

SMART researchers develop first nanotube sensors capable of detecting and distinguishing gibberellin plant hormones

Scientists have created a non-destructive method to detect and differentiate gibberellins, a class of plant hormones crucial for growth. The new nanosensors can identify changes in GA levels across various plant species, enabling early interventions against salinity stress.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2023

SMART and NTU Singapore develop a quick test kit to determine a person’s immunity against COVID-19 and its variants

A team of scientists from SMART and NTU Singapore has developed a rapid point-of-care test kit that measures antibodies against SARS-COV-2 and its variants, offering personalized vaccination strategies. The test kit requires just 10 minutes to show results and has up to 93% accuracy.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeNews article·DateSep 21, 2022

SMART research reveals promising uses of non-destructive sensors to aid food security and enhance sustainable agriculture

Recent advancements in non-destructive sensors enable real-time monitoring of plant health, allowing for prompt adjustment of environmental conditions to augment crop productivity. The sensors convert plant signals into digital signals, establishing direct communication between plants and growers.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2022

SMART researchers enable early-stage detection of microbial contamination in cell therapy

Researchers from CAMP have identified a secreted metabolite biomarker, nicotinic acid to nicotinamide ratio, to detect microbial contaminations in human cell therapy products. This method enables early-stage detection of microbial contaminants and differentiates between live and dead bacteria.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMolecular Therapy — Methods & Clinical Development·DateMay 19, 2022

SMART researchers discover unique lysin capable of killing deadly multidrug-resistant bacteria

SMART researchers identified a novel phage lysin, Abp013, with promising antimicrobial ability against Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The study demonstrated Abp013's ability to effectively target complex bacterial environments and could advance treatment methods for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAntibiotics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

SMART researchers discover novel way to perform ‘general inverse design’ with high accuracy

Researchers from Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) have discovered a way to perform 'general inverse design' with high accuracy. This breakthrough enables the creation of materials with specific characteristics and properties, paving the way for revolutionizing materials science and industrial applications.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022

SMART researchers discover new way to generate light through use of pre-existing defects in semiconductor materials

SMART researchers have discovered a practical method to overcome current challenges in the manufacture of indium gallium nitride (InGaN) LEDs with considerably higher indium concentration. The new approach uses intrinsic defects in semiconducting materials to form quantum dots that emit long-wavelength light.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalACS Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

SMART evaluates impact of competition between autonomous vehicles and public transit

A Singapore-based study found that competition between autonomous mobility services and public transit can lead to increased profits, system efficiency, and benefits for the public. However, it may also result in uneven social costs, such as higher travel costs or longer travel times, especially for vulnerable groups.

SMART discovers the science behind varying performance of different colored LEDs

The study reveals indium atoms are randomly distributed in low-indium content InGaN and partially phase-separate in higher-indium content material. The findings advance understanding of atomic microstructure and its effect on LED performance, enabling future research to optimize compositional fluctuations.

SMART researchers develop plant nanobionic sensor to monitor arsenic levels in soil

Scientists from SMART DiSTAP have engineered a novel type of plant nanobionic optical sensor that can detect and monitor arsenic levels in the belowground environment. This non-destructive approach enables plants to serve as self-powered detectors of arsenic, marking a significant upgrade over conventional methods.

SMART researchers develop customised targeting of bacteria using lysins

Researchers at Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) have developed a method to produce customisable engineered lysins that can selectively kill specific bacteria while leaving others unharmed. This discovery presents a promising alternative to antibiotics for treating existing drug-resistant bacteria.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateDec 1, 2020

SMART researchers find new way to make bacteria more sensitive to antibiotics

A team at SMART has found that exposing bacteria to hydrogen sulfide can increase antimicrobial sensitivity in bacteria that do not produce H2S, potentially providing a breakthrough in treating drug-resistant infections. The study suggests that the results may be applicable to all bacteria that do not naturally produce H2S.