NIH-funded research R21 grant

Improving imaging techniques for better assessment of diseases using lipid nanoparticles

Official title: Optimized and accessible immuno-PET using lipid nanoparticle-mediated in vivo bioreactor

Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11136966 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on a new way to take pictures of diseases in the body using a method called immunoPET, which could make it easier and more convenient for patients to get these tests done, possibly even at local pharmacies instead of hospitals.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startJuly 11, 2024
Project endApril 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$208,091
NIH project number5R21EB036323-02
Project IDNIH-11136966 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include patients who require advanced imaging for conditions like cancers or acute radiation syndrome.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not require imaging or those with conditions that do not involve antibody-based therapies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing a new imaging method called immunoPET, which allows doctors to see how diseases affect the body without invasive procedures. By using lipid nanoparticles, the study aims to improve the delivery and effectiveness of imaging agents, making it easier for patients to undergo these tests. The approach seeks to simplify the process, potentially allowing patients to receive treatment or imaging at local pharmacies instead of requiring multiple hospital visits. The goal is to make this advanced imaging technique more accessible and effective for clinical use.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and accessible imaging for diagnosing and monitoring various diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using lipid nanoparticles for therapeutic applications, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in imaging.

Where this research is happening

  • Massachusetts General Hospital
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Ng, Sheung Chee Thomas — Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Ng, Sheung Chee Thomas

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.