A soft robot designed to improve lung cancer diagnosis and treatment
Official title: Extending Reach, Accuracy, and Therapeutic Capabilities: A Soft Robot for Peripheral Early-Stage Lung Cancer
Funded at Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-11143314 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new soft surgical robot that helps doctors find and treat early-stage lung cancer more easily and accurately, making it better for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $89,593 |
| NIH project number | 3R01EB034286-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143314 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with early-stage lung cancer or suspicious lung nodules that require biopsy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced lung cancer or those who do not require biopsy procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel soft surgical robot aimed at enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of early-stage lung cancer. The robot is designed to navigate the complex anatomy of the lungs more effectively than traditional methods, allowing for better access to small bronchi and lung nodules. By utilizing advanced imaging and air-powered technology, this robot aims to improve the accuracy of biopsies and reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the early detection and treatment of lung cancer, potentially increasing survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using robotic systems for lung procedures, indicating a potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University (Charles River Campus)
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Russo, Sheila — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Russo, Sheila
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.