A new method to analyze tumor tissue for better cancer understanding.

A novel multimodal ECM analysis platform for tumor characterization combining morphological and spectrochemical tissue imaging approaches.

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10894280

This study is looking at how the environment around tumors in different types of cancer changes as they grow, using special imaging techniques to see tiny details that can help us understand how cancer develops and how it responds to treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894280 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the tumor microenvironment in various epithelial cancers, particularly by examining changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) that occur during tumor development. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to combine two methods: Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) optical microscopy and surface enhanced mid-infrared spectral imaging (SE-MIRSI). This approach will allow researchers to analyze both the structural and chemical changes in tumor tissues, which are often too small to be detected by traditional imaging methods. By correlating these findings, the research seeks to provide insights into cancer progression and treatment responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with epithelial cancers, such as breast, pancreatic, or ovarian cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with non-epithelial cancers or those without significant tumor tissue may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for patients with various types of cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for tumor characterization, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Cancer BiologyCancer CauseCancer EtiologyCancer InductionCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.