Improving detection of aggressive prostate cancer using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Clinical Translation of dual-modality transrectal ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging for detection of aggressive human prostate cancer
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10931588 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to see prostate tumors more clearly using a special combination of ultrasound and light technology, which could help doctors tell the difference between aggressive and less aggressive cancers, ultimately leading to better treatment for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $588,018 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA278833-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931588 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with prostate cancer who require biopsy to assess the aggressiveness of their tumors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous prostate conditions or those who have already undergone definitive treatment for prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer by developing a new imaging platform that combines transrectal ultrasound with photoacoustic imaging. This dual-modality approach seeks to provide more accurate and comprehensive information about prostate tumors, allowing for better differentiation between aggressive and non-aggressive forms of cancer. By mapping functional and molecular characteristics of tumors non-invasively, the research hopes to improve the effectiveness of prostate cancer biopsies and reduce the risk of under-diagnosis. Patients may benefit from more precise diagnoses and tailored treatment options based on the aggressiveness of their cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses of prostate cancer, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for cancer detection, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in prostate cancer diagnosis.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kothapalli, Sri Rajasekhar — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Kothapalli, Sri Rajasekhar
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Real-time AI-assisted ultrasound guides for targeted prostate biopsies
A new AI-powered tool uses conventional and micro-ultrasound to help clinicians target suspicious prostate areas during ultrasound-only biopsies, aiming to improve cancer detection for men who need biopsy.
-
Nanoparticle ultrasound to help find prostate cancer during biopsy
This project develops tiny, prostate-specific ultrasound bubbles to help doctors see cancer during transrectal prostate biopsies in men with suspected prostate cancer.
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Dual-modality ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging to improve prostate cancer detection
A new imaging approach combines ultrasound and light-based imaging to better identify aggressive prostate cancer in American men.
-
Improving prostate cancer diagnosis using advanced ultrasound techniques
This study is testing a new type of ultrasound to help doctors find serious prostate cancer more accurately and affordably, so patients can get the right treatment without unnecessary procedures for less aggressive cases.
-
Cardiovascular risk planning and reduction for men with prostate cancer
A program to better predict and reduce heart disease risk in men treated for prostate cancer, especially older patients.
-
Effects of ADT on motivation and emotion in prostate cancer patients
This project looks at how androgen deprivation therapy may affect motivation and mood over time in men with prostate cancer.
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.