Improving 3D imaging techniques for studying diseases in small animals
Official title: Advancing three-dimensional preclinical dynamic contrast-enhanced photoacoustic computed tomography via quantitative image reconstruction
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11035135 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on improving a special imaging technique to better see how blood flows and oxygen levels change in tumors in small animals, which can help us understand cancer and find better treatments for people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $537,168 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB034261-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035135 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include patients with cancer or other conditions that require advanced imaging techniques for better diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in preclinical studies or do not have conditions that require dynamic imaging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing imaging technology to observe dynamic physiological processes in small animal models, which is crucial for understanding human diseases and developing new treatments. The study aims to advance photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) to provide accurate three-dimensional imaging, overcoming the limitations of current two-dimensional methods. By utilizing the optical absorption properties of hemoglobin and contrast agents, the research seeks to measure important biomarkers related to tumor blood flow and oxygen levels, which can inform anti-cancer therapies. The methodology involves innovative quantitative image reconstruction techniques to improve the precision of these measurements.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective monitoring and treatment strategies for cancer and other diseases by providing detailed insights into tumor biology.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for small animal models, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Villa, Umberto — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Villa, Umberto
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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.