Improving ultrasound imaging using advanced materials
Official title: Subwavelength ultrasound focusing using negative index refraction metamaterials
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11139827 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new materials that could help improve ultrasound imaging, making it clearer and more detailed for doctors to use in diagnosing patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 16, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $199,291 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB036218-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139827 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals requiring advanced imaging techniques for conditions that are currently challenging to diagnose with standard ultrasound methods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require ultrasound imaging or those with conditions that can be adequately diagnosed using existing imaging technologies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the use of innovative materials called negative-index non-resonant acoustic metamaterials to enhance ultrasound imaging. By leveraging their unique properties, the project aims to overcome current limitations in ultrasound resolution, particularly the diffraction limit. The approach involves creating and testing these materials to achieve better focusing and imaging capabilities at higher frequencies, which could lead to more precise diagnostic tools in medicine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the accuracy and effectiveness of ultrasound imaging, leading to better diagnosis and treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar metamaterial approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vazquez Mena, Oscar — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Vazquez Mena, Oscar
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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.