Creating a new imaging agent to better detect pancreatic cancer

Development of a PET CCR2 Imaging Agent to Profile PDAC Microenvironment

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10943827

This study is testing a new imaging tool that helps doctors spot early signs of pancreatic cancer by looking at the tumor's surroundings, which could lead to quicker diagnoses and better treatment options for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10943827 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new imaging agent that utilizes positron emission tomography (PET) to identify and profile the microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly aggressive form of cancer. The study aims to improve early detection of small tumors, which is crucial for effective treatment and better survival rates. By targeting specific immune cells within the tumor environment, the imaging agent could provide insights into tumor progression and treatment resistance. Patients may benefit from more accurate imaging techniques that could lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or those with early-stage pancreatic tumors.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer or those who do not have pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection of pancreatic cancer, significantly enhancing treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using imaging agents for cancer detection, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, 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 2026-06-10 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.