Lifelike 3D-printed CT models
PixelPrint: a 3D printing platform for creating lifelike patient-based CT phantoms
This project makes realistic 3D-printed replicas of human anatomy so CT scanners and imaging software can be improved for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11305258 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will use real clinical CT images to create detailed, patient-based digital models that capture tissue textures and X-ray attenuation. Those digital models will be turned into physical 3D-printed phantoms that mimic the look and density of organs and pathologies. Engineers and radiologists will use these phantoms to test scanners, reconstruction methods, and image-analysis algorithms without exposing people to extra radiation. The goal is an affordable, reproducible way to check and improve CT performance that reflects real patient anatomy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would be people who have recent clinical CT scans and can agree to share de-identified imaging data for creating patient-based models.
Not a fit: Patients who never undergo CT imaging or whose very rare conditions are not represented in the phantom library may not see direct benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could make CT scans more accurate and reliable, helping doctors spot disease earlier or avoid misdiagnosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous 3D-printing work has produced anatomically accurate organ models and texture samples, but fully lifelike, patient-based CT phantoms that match clinical attenuation and texture remain an emerging advance.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Noel, Peter B — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Noel, Peter B
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 below.