NIH-funded research R21 grant

A new imaging method for detecting tumors early

Official title: A new highly sensitive targeted imaging method for early tumor detection

Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10837132 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on a new way to spot tumors early by using special imaging agents that target a specific marker in tumor blood vessels, which could help improve cancer detection and treatment for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startMay 8, 2023
Project endApril 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$191,337
NIH project number5R21CA274007-02
Project IDNIH-10837132 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk of developing cancer, particularly those with a family history or other risk factors.

Less likely to help

Patients with advanced-stage cancers that are already symptomatic may not benefit from this early detection method.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a highly sensitive imaging technique that targets a specific marker found in tumor blood vessels, known as the Follicle Stimulating Hormone Receptor (FSHR). The approach involves creating imaging agents that bind to FSHR and testing their effectiveness in cell cultures and in mice with implanted human tumors. By identifying tumors at their earliest stages, this method aims to improve early detection, which is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. The ultimate goal is to contribute to national efforts in reducing cancer mortality through better screening methods.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of various cancers, significantly improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted imaging techniques for cancer detection, suggesting that this approach could be a valuable advancement in the field.

Where this research is happening

  • Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Radu, Aurelian — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
  • Study coordinator: Radu, Aurelian

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.