Improving Prostate Cancer Diagnosis Using 3D Technology

Prostate cancer risk stratification via computational 3D pathology

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11332164

This project aims to improve how prostate cancer is diagnosed and managed by using new 3D imaging technology on tissue samples.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11332164 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Current prostate cancer diagnosis relies on looking at 2D slices of tissue, which can be subjective and miss important details about the cancer's true shape. This can make it hard to tell if a cancer is slow-growing or aggressive, leading to uncertainty in treatment decisions. Our team is developing a new 3D imaging method that can look at whole tissue samples without damaging them. This technology could provide a more complete and accurate picture of the cancer, helping doctors make better choices for your care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients who have undergone prostate biopsies or surgery for prostate cancer could potentially benefit from this improved diagnostic approach.

Not a fit: Patients without a prostate cancer diagnosis or those whose treatment decisions are already clear may not directly benefit from this specific diagnostic improvement.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could lead to more accurate prostate cancer diagnoses, helping doctors better decide who needs aggressive treatment and who can safely choose active surveillance.

How similar studies have performed: While 3D imaging in pathology is an emerging field, the team has demonstrated the technical feasibility of their specific open-top light-sheet microscope technology.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.