Creating new imaging tools to visualize immune cells in the body
Development of novel human Fab probes for PET imaging of macrophages
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-10917349
This study is working on new tools to help doctors see immune cells called macrophages in the body using a special imaging technique, which could help track diseases like cancer and how well treatments are working.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10917349 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative probes that can be used in PET imaging to visualize macrophages, a type of immune cell that plays a crucial role in various diseases, including cancer. The approach involves screening a library of human antibodies to identify those that bind specifically to CD68, a biomarker for macrophages. The selected probes will then be tested in mouse models to ensure they effectively target macrophages and can be used for imaging in humans. The ultimate goal is to create a toolkit that allows for the non-invasive assessment of macrophage density in patients, aiding in the monitoring of disease progression and treatment response.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with conditions where macrophage activity is significant, such as cancer or cardiovascular diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to macrophage activity or those who do not require imaging of immune responses may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new method for doctors to non-invasively monitor immune responses and disease progression in patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing imaging probes for other immune cells, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MARQUEZ-NOSTRA, BERNADETTE — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: MARQUEZ-NOSTRA, BERNADETTE
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 below.