NIH-funded research R01 grant

Multispectral imaging to catch bile duct cancer early

Official title: Multispectral imaging of bile duct epithelial morphology for early detection of malignancy

Funded at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-11348912 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A new imaging approach during routine ERCP procedures aims to spot early bile duct cancer before it becomes deadly.

More Malignancy research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2029
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$705,508
NIH project number5R01CA293050-03
Project IDNIH-11348912 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

People undergoing ERCP for evaluation of biliary disease who are suspected of having bile duct abnormalities.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to bile duct cancer or who do not undergo ERCP may not benefit.

What this research studies

If you are at risk for bile duct cancer, this project tests a light-based imaging method during standard ERCP that could reveal pre-cancer and early cancer in the bile ducts. The approach uses a tiny fiber optic probe to scan the bile duct surface quickly, potentially providing clearer tissue information than today’s imaging. Researchers will combine light scattering and reflectance signals to distinguish normal from abnormal tissue. The goal is to improve early detection so patients can be treated sooner and more effectively.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this method could lead to earlier, more accurate detection and better chances for curative treatment.

How similar studies have gone: This builds on prior use of light-based tissue characterization during ERCP and aims to broaden accuracy and coverage beyond current limits.

Where this research is happening

  • Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Perelman, Lev T — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Perelman, Lev T

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.