Developing new imaging techniques for studying hypoxic cells and tumors
Engineering fluorescence and magnetic resonance reporter genes for imaging biological function in hypoxic cells and in vivo
This study is working on new ways to make cells light up in low-oxygen areas, like those found in tumors and infections, to help us better understand how these conditions affect the body and find better ways to diagnose and treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Barbara NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Barbara, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10687183 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating advanced reporter genes that can emit light in low-oxygen environments, which are common in tumors and certain infections. Current methods using green fluorescent protein (GFP) and luciferase are limited by their reliance on oxygen and their inability to penetrate deep tissues. By engineering new types of reporter genes, the research aims to improve our understanding of how hypoxia affects cell function and tumor biology. This could lead to better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for conditions associated with low oxygen levels.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with tumors or infections that exhibit hypoxic conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve hypoxia or tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the ability to visualize and understand tumor behavior and drug resistance in hypoxic conditions, potentially leading to improved treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of developing new reporter genes is innovative, similar technologies have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Santa Barbara, United States
- University of California Santa Barbara — Santa Barbara, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mukherjee, Arnab — University of California Santa Barbara
- Study coordinator: Mukherjee, Arnab
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.