New imaging agents for diagnosing prostate cancer
Official title: Prostate cancer-diagnosing imaging agents
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11138917 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new imaging agents that can help doctors find prostate cancer more accurately using MRI, so patients can get better and earlier diagnoses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $185,171 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB035705-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138917 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for prostate cancer or those undergoing evaluation for prostate-related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer or those with other unrelated health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced imaging agents that enhance the ability to detect prostate cancer using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By utilizing polymers, the study aims to create agents that can attach multiple signal-generating molecules, improving the sensitivity and specificity of MRI scans. The approach involves optimizing these agents to ensure they are less toxic and more effective in identifying prostate-specific markers. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic accuracy and earlier detection of prostate cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and earlier diagnosis of prostate cancer, improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using polymeric agents for MRI, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomas, Aline — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Thomas, Aline
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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.