A soft robot designed to improve lung cancer diagnosis and treatment

Extending Reach, Accuracy, and Therapeutic Capabilities: A Soft Robot for Peripheral Early-Stage Lung Cancer

NIH-funded research Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-10895281

This study is testing a new soft robot designed to help doctors take better samples from hard-to-reach areas in the lungs, making it easier to diagnose and treat early-stage lung cancer for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10895281 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a novel soft surgical robot that enhances the ability to diagnose and treat early-stage lung cancer. The robot aims to improve the accuracy of biopsies by accessing hard-to-reach areas of the lung where traditional methods struggle. By utilizing advanced imaging and a flexible design, this robot will allow for better tissue sampling, potentially leading to earlier and more effective treatment options for patients. The project builds on previous work in robotic bronchoscopy to ensure a more precise and less invasive approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with early-stage lung cancer or suspicious lung nodules requiring biopsy.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced lung cancer or those who do not require biopsy procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve early detection and treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in robotic bronchoscopy has shown promise, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in lung cancer diagnostics.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
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.