Better tools for finding bile duct cancer early

Multispectral imaging of bile duct epithelial morphology for early detection of malignancy

NIH-funded research Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-11123497

This project is developing a new way to find bile duct cancer at its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11123497 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Bile duct cancer is often found too late, making it very difficult to treat. Current methods for finding it early, like biopsies during an ERCP procedure, can miss some cancers or struggle to get enough tissue for a clear diagnosis. This project aims to improve early detection by using a special light-based technology during routine ERCPs. This new approach would scan the inside of the bile duct to look for changes in cells that could signal pre-cancer or early cancer, without needing a separate cholangioscope.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients undergoing diagnostic ERCP procedures for bile duct concerns may be ideal candidates for future participation in studies using this technology.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have bile duct concerns or are not undergoing ERCP procedures would not directly benefit from this specific diagnostic tool.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could allow doctors to find bile duct cancer much earlier, significantly improving treatment outcomes and saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Researchers have recently introduced a similar diagnostic technology, suggesting a foundation for this improved approach.

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.
Conditions Bile Duct Cancer
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.