Improving brain imaging to detect small tumors earlier
Official title: Two-way Magnetic Resonance Tuning Nanoprobe Enhanced Subtraction Imaging for Precision Diagnosis of Brain Metastasis
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11221497 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging method that uses special technology to help doctors find small brain tumors that are often overlooked, making it easier to diagnose and treat them early, so patients can get better care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $92,549 |
| NIH project number | 3R01EB035416-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11221497 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with systemic cancers who are at risk of developing brain metastases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established large brain tumors or those without a history of systemic cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new imaging technique to enhance the detection of small brain metastases, which are often missed by current methods. By utilizing a novel molecular nanoprobe that activates magnetic resonance signals, the study aims to improve the contrast between tumors and normal brain tissue. This approach combines advanced imaging technology with computational methods to provide clearer images, potentially allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases. Patients may benefit from non-invasive imaging that can identify tumors at a stage when treatment options are more effective.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of brain metastases, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing imaging techniques for tumor detection, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Yuanpei — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Li, Yuanpei
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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.