Science · 22 July 2026
Why ZPP — and why photoacoustics
When iron is limited, zinc replaces iron in protoporphyrin. Differential sensing at 407 nm and 425 nm is how we intend to isolate that signal.
When iron is not sufficiently available during haem production, zinc may be incorporated into protoporphyrin instead. That makes ZPP a potentially useful indicator of iron-restricted red blood cell production.
ZAWADI is exploring a compact sensing platform that applies controlled light to tissue, detects the resulting optical or acoustic response, and analyses features associated with iron-related biomarkers. The research question is whether these signals can be measured reliably enough to support useful point-of-care screening.
The method under development uses paired wavelengths (407 nm and 425 nm) in a differential photoacoustic approach intended to suppress shared tissue background. Nothing here is a diagnostic claim — it is the scientific rationale guiding prototype and calibration work.
Development-stage notice: ZAWADI is under active validation. Not a diagnostic substitute. Regulatory status: Research and development programme — not submitted for regulatory clearance and not offered for clinical diagnosis or commercial use.