Improving prostate cancer detection in African American men using advanced MRI techniques
Official title: Pilot Project #1
Funded at Howard University · NIH-11011785 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, easy way to take pictures of the prostate to find and predict cancer, especially for African American men who are at greater risk, using advanced MRI technology and computer tools to make the images clearer and more helpful for doctors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Howard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $152,428 |
| NIH project number | 1U54CA295337-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011785 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are African American men who are at risk for or diagnosed with prostate cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not African American or those without prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a non-invasive imaging technique to detect and predict prostate cancer, particularly in African American men who are at higher risk. The approach utilizes molecular CEST MRI on standard 3T MRI scanners, enhanced by a machine learning-based metabolic imaging processing pipeline. By simulating metabolic activity in tumors, the study aims to provide high-resolution images that can improve the accuracy of cancer prognosis and detection. The goal is to create a cost-effective tool that addresses the disparities in cancer care for underserved communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of prostate cancer, ultimately reducing mortality rates in African American men.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for cancer detection, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Howard University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deh, Kofi — Howard University
- Study coordinator: Deh, Kofi
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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.