Improving PET imaging for better diagnosis of diseases

Leveraging ultra-fast Cherenkov emission in scintillator-based TOF-PET by exploiting photon wavelength classification

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10823355

This study is working on making PET scans better by improving the way they capture light, which could help doctors see clearer images for diagnosing diseases like cancer and heart problems, while also making the process quicker and safer for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10823355 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the technology used in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging by separating different types of light emitted from scintillator crystals. By improving the time and energy resolution of PET detectors, the goal is to achieve clearer and more accurate images for diagnosing various diseases, including cancers and cardiovascular conditions. The approach involves utilizing both scintillation and Cherenkov light to optimize imaging performance, which could lead to reduced radiation exposure for patients and faster imaging times.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals undergoing PET scans for cancer, neurological disorders, or cardiovascular diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require PET imaging or have conditions that are not diagnosed using this technology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and safer imaging procedures for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing PET imaging through similar technological advancements, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions CancersCardiovascular DiseasesDiseaseDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.