Improving thyroid cancer imaging with a new camera technology
Official title: SPECT with a Compton Camera for Thyroid Cancer Imaging
Funded at University of Massachusetts Lowell · NIH-10286795 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of camera that helps doctors see thyroid nodules more clearly, which can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of thyroid cancer, all while keeping radiation exposure low for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Lowell NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lowell, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $407,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21CA264772-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10286795 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are young women and adolescents who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with thyroid cancer who are not eligible for imaging or those with advanced disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the imaging of thyroid cancer using a novel Compton camera technology. By utilizing this advanced imaging system, the study aims to improve the detection and characterization of thyroid nodules, which are critical for diagnosing thyroid cancer. The approach involves developing a high-efficiency imaging system that reduces radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic accuracy, leveraging deep learning techniques for better image reconstruction. Patients will benefit from more precise imaging that could lead to earlier detection and better treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more accurate imaging techniques for thyroid cancer, improving patient diagnosis and treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results with advanced imaging technologies, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant improvements in cancer imaging.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Massachusetts Lowell
Lowell, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Hengyong — University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Study coordinator: Yu, Hengyong
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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.