Developing new methods for incorporating fluorine-18 into complex molecules for imaging
Official title: Metal Fluorination For biomolecules: Expanding The Radiofluorination Toolbox
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11057029 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new ways to make better imaging tools for diagnosing cancer, especially by improving how we use a special chemical called fluorine-18 in complex molecules, which could help doctors see and treat conditions like prostate cancer more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | December 5, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $174,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB035675-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057029 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing evaluation for prostate cancer or other conditions where advanced imaging techniques are beneficial.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have conditions requiring advanced molecular imaging or those who are not candidates for imaging studies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving molecular imaging techniques by developing innovative methods for incorporating fluorine-18 into complex biomolecules. The approach involves creating irreversible metal-fluorine bonds, which could enhance the effectiveness of existing fluorination methods. By evaluating different metal centers for their pharmacological properties, the research aims to create more efficient imaging agents that can also be paired with therapeutic isotopes. This could lead to better diagnostic tools for conditions like cancer, particularly targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) and carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX).
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective imaging techniques that improve the diagnosis and treatment of various cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing imaging techniques through novel radiochemistry approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carroll, Laurence — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Carroll, Laurence
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.