Improving MRI to better detect remaining breast cancer after chemotherapy
Official title: Advancing NEMO’s specific MRI detection of residual breast cancer using novel imaging platforms
Funded at West Virginia University · NIH-11431845 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new MRI contrast agent called NEMO is being developed to more accurately show where breast cancer remains after chemotherapy, potentially reducing unnecessary mastectomies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project start | June 2, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $484,944 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA316114-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11431845 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults with locally advanced or residual breast cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy who are considering surgery and imaging options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without residual breast cancer or who are not undergoing MRI-guided assessment after chemotherapy may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to create safer, more precise MRI contrast agents that target breast cancer cells and provide clear signals when tumors are present after chemotherapy. The team uses nano-encapsulated manganese oxide particles (NEMO) that are directed to cancer cells and become visible in MRI within about 30 minutes. Initial animal data suggest NEMO is tolerated well and cleared from the body quickly, with higher specificity than current gadolinium agents. The work focuses on translating this approach to improve imaging of therapeutic response in breast cancer patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to more accurate assessments of residual disease and fewer unnecessary mastectomies.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary animal studies show promising specificity and safety, supporting the potential for clinical translation but human data are needed to confirm benefits.
Where this research is happening
-
West Virginia University
Morgantown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bennewitz, Margaret — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Bennewitz, Margaret
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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.