Improving lung cancer radiation therapy using advanced imaging techniques

Lung Functional Avoidance Radiotherapy Using Hyperpolarized Xenon MRI

['FUNDING_R01'] · XEMED, LLC · NIH-11039929

This study is looking at a new way to improve radiation treatment for lung cancer by using a special imaging technique to create detailed maps of how your lungs are working, so doctors can target the tumor while protecting the healthy parts of your lungs.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorXEMED, LLC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11039929 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing radiation therapy for lung cancer by using hyperpolarized xenon MRI to create detailed 3D maps of lung function. The goal is to deliver lethal doses of radiation to tumor areas while sparing healthy lung tissue and vital organs. By utilizing a new imaging technique that allows patients to breathe normally, the researchers aim to identify regions of the lung that are functioning well and should be preserved during treatment. This approach seeks to minimize the risk of complications such as radiation pneumonitis and fibrosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are lung cancer patients who require radiation therapy and have compromised lung function.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage lung cancer who do not require radiation therapy or those with non-lung cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective radiation therapy for lung cancer patients, reducing side effects and improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using advanced imaging techniques for radiation therapy have shown promise, but this specific approach using hyperpolarized xenon MRI is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.