Explore NIAID Research to Understand, Treat, and Prevent Pathogenic Disease
PathogenAR is an Augmented Reality application from the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Explore interactive stories about pathogens and pathogenic disease using touch gestures or a Merge Cube Device.
Concept
Augmented reality (AR) technology combines a real-world view with computer-generated assets. AR devices range from high-end wearable headsets to smartphone-based applications that can be used with or without inexpensive stereoscopic viewer accessories. Our research and others' work has shown the potential to dramatically change biomedical research, education, and clinical practice by the use of AR. We were particularly interested in the potential for mobile AR apps with image-tracking-based interactivity as a convenient method for researchers and students to communicate and learn about structural and functional features of biomolecules and viruses. To this end, we have developed PathogenAR as means to share mini-stories or "Modules" about specific research and pathogen-related topics. Much of this research is happening within the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Watch a video to see a demonstration of PathogenAR.
Main Areas of Focus
To be an educational tool aimed at the general public to provide insight surrounding viral and bacterial pathogens
Available Modules
- Influenza: A Universal Vaccine - Explore strategies NIAID researchers are using to develop a single vaccine targeting the many types of Influenza virus
- HIV/AIDS: Anti-retroviral Drugs - Learn about several anti-retroviral drugs used to treat HIV infections
- COVID-19: How SARS-CoV-2 binds to Host cells - Explore the structure of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein and how it binds to host cells via the ACE2 receptor
- COVID-19: Nasopharyngeal Swabs - Navigate the anatomical hurdles of the nasal cavity while conducting a virtual nasopharyngeal swab
- Hepatitis B: The Hepatitis B Life Cycle - Learn about hepatitis B virus (HBV), that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease
- Papillomavirus: The HPV Minichromosome - Reviews how papillomaviruses use histones to pack their DNA inside the capsid and how modifications of these histones might promote infection with HPV.
How To Get Started
Download the app from the App Store.
Research Team
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Kristen Browne MS, MSBMC: Unity Developer and 3D Artist
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Philip Cruz, Ph.D.: Structural Biologist
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Samuel Ezeji: UI/UX Designer
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Meghan McCarthy, Ph.D.: Program Lead, 3D Printing and Biovisualization
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Michael Dolan, Ph.D.: Head, Bioinformatics Software Section
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Lewis Kim, M.P.H.: Lead, Bioinformatics Software Section