Early detection of breast cancer using blood tests and AI-enhanced MRI
Fred Hutchinson Breast Cancer Clinical Validation Center
Testing blood protein markers and AI-analyzed MRI scans to find breast cancer earlier in women, especially those at higher risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145728 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This program is validating blood-based protein biomarkers and AI-driven MRI measurements to improve early detection of breast cancer. Researchers are confirming proteins discovered with mass spectrometry and developing quantitative MRI markers that AI algorithms can read more consistently. They will move promising markers through phased validation using stored blood samples and screening MRI exams from women, including high-risk groups. The best-performing blood and imaging markers will be combined and tested together in a larger Phase 4 validation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are women undergoing breast cancer screening, particularly those at higher risk who can provide blood samples and have screening MRI exams.
Not a fit: People who cannot undergo MRI, are unwilling to donate blood, or who are not participating in breast screening may not directly benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these combined tests could detect breast cancer earlier, expanding treatment options and reducing deaths.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising biomarkers and AI approaches for imaging, but combining blood tests with AI-driven MRI in large Phase 4 validation is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Christopher I — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Li, Christopher I
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.