Fullwave physics-guided ultrasound modeling for faster, clearer imaging
Official title: Fullwave Physics-Informed Neural Networks for Rapid Ultrasound Simulation, Quantitative Imaging, and Adaptive Focusing
Funded at University of Texas Dallas · NIH-11442457 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A patient-friendly project to make ultrasound images more accurate and reliable by using advanced computer models that simulate how ultrasound waves move through body tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Dallas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richardson, United States) |
| Project start | August 7, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $186,674 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB039965-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11442457 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with conditions where ultrasound is used for abdominal or tissue characterization, such as liver disease or other abdominal pathologies, may benefit from improved imaging.
✕Less likely to help
Some patients with imaging scenarios where ultrasound is already optimal or where changing imaging methods provides no added value may see no benefit.
What this research studies
This grant focuses on creating a fast, physics-informed neural network approach to ultrasound that can predict how sound travels through fat, muscle, and bone. By embedding realistic wave equations into an interpretable model, the team aims to produce faster simulations and more precise tissue property maps. The goal is to improve image quality and quantitative measurements in ultrasound, potentially aiding diagnosis and treatment planning. The work involves collaboration between computer science and medical imaging experts at the University of Texas at Dallas, with results that could translate into better bedside ultrasound tools.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to faster, more accurate ultrasound imaging and quantitative tissue maps that help clinicians diagnose diseases more reliably.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown promise for physics-informed models in imaging, but clinical adoption remains limited, making this approach novel and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Dallas
Richardson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, You — University of Texas Dallas
- Study coordinator: Li, You
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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.