Developing heat-activated nanoparticles for better cancer imaging
Body heat activated, storable, near-infrared, self-illuminating nanoprobes for chemiluminescence imaging of cancer
This study is testing new tiny particles that can light up when they get warm from your body, helping doctors find and remove cancer cells more easily during surgery, which could lead to better results for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875858 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative nanoparticles that can be activated by body heat to improve the detection of cancerous cells during surgery. By utilizing near-infrared chemiluminescent and fluorescent properties, these nanoparticles aim to enhance imaging capabilities beyond current methods, which often miss microscopic disease. The goal is to provide surgeons with better tools to identify and remove cancerous tissues, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. The nanoparticles can be stored at low temperatures, making them practical for clinical use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients undergoing surgical procedures who may benefit from improved imaging techniques to detect microscopic disease.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced-stage cancer where surgery is not a viable option may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the accuracy of cancer surgeries, leading to better survival rates and reduced recurrence of cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using nanoparticles for cancer imaging is promising, it is still considered a novel method with limited prior success in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Jung-Jae — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Lee, Jung-Jae
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.