MRI methods to better detect aggressive prostate cancer in Black men

Racially-associated MRI analysis and modeling for predicting aggressive prostate cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11211083

This project uses advanced MRI measurements and new analysis rules to more accurately find aggressive prostate cancer in African American men.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11211083 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

If you join, researchers will use your prostate mpMRI scans and contrast-based perfusion measurements (Ktrans) alongside standard PI-RADS readings. They will apply a portable calibration device (the P4 phantom) to reduce measurement differences between scanners and centers. The team will build and test models that use race-associated MRI features and Ktrans thresholds tailored for African American men. They will compare detection rates across groups and across scanners to make the MRI readings more reliable.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are African American men undergoing or referred for prostate MRI because of elevated risk or suspicion of prostate cancer, especially with lesions in the transition zone.

Not a fit: Men without prostate concerns, those not getting contrast-enhanced mpMRI, or patients whose tumors lack the studied imaging features may not see direct benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Could help catch aggressive prostate cancers earlier and reduce missed or misclassified tumors for African American men.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from the team showed improved detection when using AA-specific Ktrans thresholds and the P4 phantom reduced measurement variability, but broader validation is still needed.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.