Better Lung Imaging for Conditions like Pulmonary Fibrosis

Quantitative Ultrasound for Interstitial Lung Diseases

['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY RALEIGH · NIH-11193973

This work explores a new ultrasound method to better track lung conditions like heart failure-related fluid buildup and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in people.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY RALEIGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (RALEIGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11193973 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We are developing a special type of ultrasound, called Quantitative Ultrasound (LQUS), to get clearer and more precise pictures of changes in the lungs. Currently, doctors use X-rays, CT scans, or breathing tests, but these can expose patients to radiation, be uncomfortable, or give inconsistent results. Our goal is to create a real-time, non-invasive, and radiation-free way to monitor lung health. This new method aims to overcome challenges with traditional ultrasound in the lungs, which struggles with air-filled spaces, by providing specific measurements rather than just general observations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for future participation might include individuals living with pulmonary edema due to heart failure or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients without lung conditions like pulmonary edema or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis would likely not receive direct benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this new ultrasound method could offer a safer, more comfortable, and more accurate way to monitor lung diseases, potentially leading to earlier and more personalized treatment adjustments.

How similar studies have performed: While conventional ultrasound has limitations in lung imaging, this quantitative approach is a novel development aiming to provide more specific and reliable biomarkers.

Where this research is happening

RALEIGH, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.