Improving MRI imaging of low oxygen levels in tumors
Official title: Outer sphere tuning of a Eu(II)-containing contrast agent for imaging hypoxia via MRI
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-10995737 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of dye for MRI scans that helps doctors see low-oxygen areas in tumors more clearly, which could lead to better diagnosis and treatment for patients with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,619 |
| NIH project number | 1F30EB035471-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995737 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with tumors that are suspected to be hypoxic or resistant to standard treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-tumor-related conditions or those whose tumors are not hypoxic may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new contrast agent that can enhance MRI imaging of hypoxic (low oxygen) areas in tumors. By using a special compound containing europium, the team aims to create clearer images that can help identify aggressive disease states and improve treatment planning. The project seeks to overcome the challenge of the contrast agent's short lifespan in the body, allowing for better systemic delivery and imaging of hypoxic regions across various diseases. Patients may benefit from more accurate diagnostics and tailored therapies based on their tumor's oxygen levels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise imaging of tumors, allowing for better diagnosis and treatment strategies for patients with hypoxic tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using europium-based contrast agents for imaging, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Batchev, Andrea — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Batchev, Andrea
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Using MRI to measure brain oxygen levels as an early sign of small vessel disease in the brain
This study is looking at how measuring oxygen levels in the brain with MRI can help spot early signs of small vessel disease, which is linked to memory problems and dementia, especially Alzheimer's, so if you're at risk due to age or high blood pressure, you might be able to participate in MRI scans to learn more about
-
HIF-driven ways to repair damaged lungs in IPF
A doctor-researcher is testing how low-oxygen signals (HIF) could help restore healthy lung tissue in people with IPF.
-
Neonatal Brain Injury Protection with New Purine Compounds
A new medication approach using purine derivatives is being studied to protect newborn brains from injury caused by limited blood flow and oxygen during birth.
-
Aldo-keto reductase (AKR) helps brain BH4 levels after injury
This grant tests whether brain AKR enzymes can boost BH4 levels and support better brain function after hypoxia-ischemia-related injury.
-
Dual-hypoxia and proliferation PET biomarker for recurrent glioblastoma
A study using a special PET imaging approach to map oxygen-poor areas and cell growth in recurrent brain tumors to guide treatment decisions.
-
How low oxygen and genetic tweaks may repair mitochondrial problems linked to Alzheimer’s and other disorders
A Johns Hopkins-style? (Note: institution specified later) patient-facing overview: researchers will study tiny cell power stations in mitochondria to see if low-oxygen conditions and specific genetic changes can fix problems associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
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.