Improving detection and treatment of small ovarian cancer tumors
Official title: Quantitative Fluorescence Imaging-Guided Detection and Targeted Therapy Monitoring Platform for Ovarian Cancer Micrometastases
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11078659 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for ways to find and treat tiny tumors in women with advanced ovarian cancer using special imaging and a light-activated drug, which could lead to better results and fewer side effects than regular chemotherapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | December 16, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $359,953 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA243164-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078659 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer who have microscopic tumor nodules that are difficult to detect and treat.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage ovarian cancer or those without detectable micrometastases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the detection and treatment of microscopic tumor nodules in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. By using a combination of advanced imaging techniques and targeted therapy, the study aims to identify these small tumors more effectively and deliver treatment directly to them. The approach involves using a special imaging method that highlights cancer cells and a targeted drug that is activated by light, which can help minimize side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. Patients may benefit from a more precise treatment that could improve their chances of survival.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for ovarian cancer, potentially improving survival rates and reducing the side effects of chemotherapy.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using targeted therapies and advanced imaging techniques for cancer treatment, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sunar, Ulas — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Sunar, Ulas
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Targeted therapy to treat ovarian cancer by promoting cancer cell death
A new, targeted therapy called EC359 aims to kill ovarian cancer cells and cancer stem cells, potentially improving outcomes for patients who have recurrent, treatment-resistant disease.
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Fluorescent-guided laparoscopy with light-activated chemotherapy for tiny ovarian cancer spread
This uses a fluorescent agent to make tiny ovarian cancer nodules glow during laparoscopy and a near-infrared light to trigger local release of chemotherapy at those spots for people with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer.
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A new targeted treatment for ovarian cancer
This research aims to develop a brand new medicine to help patients with ovarian cancer, especially those whose cancer has come back or stopped responding to current treatments.
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New targeted treatment for ovarian cancer
This study is working on a new treatment for ovarian cancer that could help patients who struggle with the usual therapies, by using a special drug called EC359 to target the cancer cells more effectively and hopefully improve their chances of recovery.
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Understanding the experience of ovarian cancer after diagnosis to improve survivorship
This NIH grant funds a mixed-methods study to better understand physical and emotional challenges faced by ovarian cancer survivors and how supportive care can help them live better after diagnosis.
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Integrative histo-genomic analysis to guide cancer risk and targeted therapies with interpretable AI
Researchers are developing an advanced AI-powered approach to map genetic and cellular patterns across breast and cervical cancers to help tailor treatments.
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.