Clearer, faster 3D breast X‑ray imaging using a new stationary X‑ray source
Official title: A 2D Stationary X-ray Source System for Improved Breast Tomosynthesis Imaging
Funded at University of New Mexico · NIH-11159643 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project builds a new two‑dimensional stationary X‑ray source to produce clearer and faster breast tomosynthesis images for people getting mammograms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2017 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $391,867 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA214515-09 |
| Project ID | NIH-11159643 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People scheduled for screening or diagnostic mammography, especially those who would receive tomosynthesis, would be the likely candidates for future trials.
✕Less likely to help
People without a need for breast imaging or those who cannot undergo X‑ray exams (for example, pregnant people) are unlikely to benefit from this work.
What this research studies
The team is designing a two‑dimensional Multi‑X‑ray‑source Array (MXA) that stays stationary instead of mechanically moving during a scan to make breast tomosynthesis faster and less prone to motion blur. They will develop and calibrate a full 2D MXA system, characterize its image quality and technical performance, and optimize scan times to meet clinical needs. The work aims to shrink system size and cost compared with moving‑source devices while improving 3D image clarity. Once the device is fully characterized, the group plans to prepare it for clinical trials and industry partnerships so it can be tested with patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could deliver clearer, faster breast 3D X‑ray images that improve cancer detection and reduce repeat scans for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Stationary multi‑source X‑ray concepts have been explored previously, but a clinically practical 2D MXA for breast tomosynthesis is novel and has not yet been proven in patient trials.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwoebel, Paul R — University of New Mexico
- Study coordinator: Schwoebel, Paul R
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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.