Improving liver tumor targeting for radiotherapy without contrast agents
Accurate 4D Liver Tumor Localization for Radiotherapy using Contrast-Agent-Free X-ray Imaging and Liver Biomechanical Modeling
['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10848450
This study is testing a new imaging method to help doctors find liver tumors more accurately during radiation treatment, so they can target the tumors better and protect healthy tissue, making the treatment safer and more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10848450 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the accuracy of liver tumor localization during radiotherapy by developing a new imaging technique called Bio-4DCBCT. This method combines biomechanical modeling with advanced imaging to better track liver tumors as they move during breathing, which is crucial for effective treatment. By reducing the treatment area to closely match the tumor's actual size, this approach aims to minimize radiation exposure to healthy liver tissue and improve patient outcomes. The study seeks to address the limitations of current imaging techniques that often lead to excessive radiation being delivered to surrounding organs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with primary or metastatic liver cancers who are undergoing stereotactic body radiotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients with liver tumors that are not suitable for radiotherapy or those with advanced liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise radiotherapy for liver cancer patients, reducing side effects and improving treatment effectiveness.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in improving tumor localization techniques, but this specific approach using biomechanical modeling is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHANG, YOU — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: ZHANG, YOU
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 below.