Improving detection of early-stage metastatic melanoma using advanced microscopy
Official title: Improving Accuracy of Next-Generation Microscopy for Early Stage Metastatic Melanoma Detection
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11011335 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging technique to help doctors better identify early-stage melanomas that have spread, so patients can get the right treatment sooner and improve their chances of recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $169,353 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA280272-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011335 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage melanoma who may actually have undetected metastatic disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with confirmed non-metastatic melanoma or those at advanced stages of melanoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new microscopy technique called femtosecond pump-probe microscopy to accurately identify early-stage melanomas that are actually metastatic. Current methods can misclassify these tumors, delaying necessary treatment and increasing mortality rates. By using this advanced imaging approach, the research aims to better determine which patients with early-stage melanoma may benefit from early adjuvant therapies, potentially improving outcomes and reducing treatment-related side effects. The goal is to establish a reliable method for identifying patients who need immediate intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more effective treatment for patients with metastatic melanoma, improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggests that this novel microscopy approach has shown promise, indicating potential success in improving melanoma detection, although it is a relatively new and untested method.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Warren, Warren S — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Warren, Warren S
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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.