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.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $705,508 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA293050-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-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
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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.