Creating a new imaging technology that combines PET and ultrasound for better patient treatment
Official title: Development of a real-time interactive PET/US imaging technology to enhance theranostics applications in precision medicine
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11174413 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging technology that combines PET and ultrasound to help doctors see detailed images of tissues in real-time, making it easier to get accurate biopsies and create personalized treatment plans for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $507,428 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB035144-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11174413 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients undergoing biopsies or requiring precise imaging for targeted therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require imaging or biopsy procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative imaging technology that merges positron emission tomography (PET) with ultrasound (US) imaging. The goal is to provide real-time visualization of molecular contrasts alongside ultrasound images, enhancing the accuracy of tissue biopsies and personalized therapy. By using a compact PET device with a robotic arm, the technology aims to improve the precision of imaging in various organs, allowing for better identification of drug targets in diseased tissues. This approach seeks to optimize treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the accuracy of biopsies and the personalization of treatment plans for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in combining imaging modalities, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in patient care.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tai, Yuan-Chuan — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Tai, Yuan-Chuan
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.