NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Detecting bacterial infections using advanced imaging techniques

Official title: Imaging Bacterial Infections in Vivo: First in Man Studies

Funded at Microbial Imaging, LLC · NIH-10611527 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new imaging tool that helps doctors spot infections related to medical devices like joint implants earlier and more accurately, so patients can get better treatment sooner.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMicrobial Imaging, LLC
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lithia Springs, United States)
Project startJanuary 15, 2021
Project endMarch 31, 2026
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$609,132
NIH project number5R42AI157552-03
Project IDNIH-10611527 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients with orthopedic implants who are at risk for bacterial infections.

Less likely to help

Patients without medical devices or those not at risk for infections may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel imaging agent that can detect bacterial infections associated with medical devices, particularly orthopedic implants. Current diagnostic methods often fail to identify infections until they are advanced, making treatment difficult. The study aims to conduct first-in-man trials using a new fluorine-18 imaging agent that enhances the ability to visualize infections through PET imaging. By improving the accuracy of infection detection, this research seeks to enhance patient care and outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of bacterial infections, improving treatment options for patients with medical devices.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using advanced imaging for infection detection is innovative, similar imaging technologies have shown promise in other areas of medical diagnostics.

Where this research is happening

  • Microbial Imaging, LLC
    Lithia Springs, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Goodman, Mark Myron — Microbial Imaging, LLC
  • Study coordinator: Goodman, Mark Myron

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.