NIH-funded research R01 grant

Improving ultrasound imaging for noninvasive kidney tumor treatment

Official title: Imaging Feedback for Histotripsy Renal Tumor Ablation

Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11123993 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on a new way to use ultrasound imaging to help doctors better monitor a noninvasive treatment for kidney tumors, making it easier and more effective for patients who can't have traditional surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$526,936
NIH project number5R01EB035230-02
Project IDNIH-11123993 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma who may benefit from noninvasive treatment options.

Less likely to help

Patients with renal cell carcinoma who are eligible for traditional surgical interventions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing ultrasound imaging techniques to improve the monitoring of a noninvasive treatment called histotripsy for kidney tumors. Histotripsy uses focused ultrasound to destroy cancerous tissue through bubble activity, but current imaging methods struggle to accurately visualize these bubbles, especially in complex tumors. By developing a new, ultrafast imaging technique, the research aims to provide real-time feedback during treatment, ensuring better outcomes for patients with renal cell carcinoma. This approach could help automate the treatment process and make it more effective for patients who may not qualify for traditional surgery.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatment options for patients with kidney tumors, particularly those who are not candidates for surgery.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for similar noninvasive treatments, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Chicago
    Chicago, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Bader, Kenneth B. — University of Chicago
  • Study coordinator: Bader, Kenneth B.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.