Improving tumor detection using advanced fluorescence imaging techniques
Official title: Fluorescence lifetime-based tumor contrast enhancement using exogenous probes
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-10931674 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help doctors see tumors more clearly during diagnosis and surgery by using special imaging techniques and probes, which could lead to better treatment results for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $456,031 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033427-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931674 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing diagnostic imaging or surgical procedures for cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not requiring tumor detection will likely not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the ability to detect tumors during diagnosis and surgery by using advanced fluorescence optical imaging techniques. It involves the use of specialized probes that either accumulate in tumors or are designed to bind to specific tumor receptors. The study aims to overcome challenges related to background fluorescence that can obscure tumor visibility, by utilizing fluorescence lifetime measurements, which provide clearer differentiation between tumor and normal tissue. This approach could lead to more accurate tumor classification and improved surgical outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise tumor detection, improving diagnostic accuracy and surgical success rates for cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence lifetime imaging for tumor detection, indicating potential for success with this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Anand T.n. — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Anand T.n.
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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.