Improving brain tumor imaging using a new glucose metabolism technique

Single-scan, multi-contrast imaging of glucose metabolism in patients with glioblastoma

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11048491

This study is testing a new, gentle imaging method to help doctors see how glioblastoma, a tough brain tumor, is changing over time, so they can make better treatment choices for patients without needing lots of MRI scans.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11048491 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a noninvasive imaging technique to better assess the progression of glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumor. By using a method called deuterium metabolic imaging (DMI) with non-radioactive deuterated glucose, the study aims to quickly identify tumor activity and growth without the need for multiple MRI scans over time. This approach could provide clinicians with timely information to make more informed treatment decisions for patients. The goal is to enhance the accuracy of brain tumor imaging and improve patient management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who require regular monitoring of tumor growth and treatment response.

Not a fit: Patients with brain tumors other than glioblastoma or those who are not undergoing treatment for their tumors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate assessments of glioblastoma progression, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While metabolic imaging has shown success in other tumor types, this specific approach for glioblastoma is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.