New imaging agents to detect oxidative stress in the brain

Novel imaging agents of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of the central nervous system

NIH-funded research St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NIH-10705491

This study is testing a new imaging tool that can safely look at the levels of harmful substances in the brain, helping doctors understand and track conditions like brain injuries, ALS, and depression, all without needing any invasive procedures.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Memphis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10705491 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a non-invasive imaging tool that can measure reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the central nervous system (CNS) of living patients. By using a novel positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agent, the study aims to identify and monitor oxidative stress related to various neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injury, ALS, and depression. This approach will allow for longitudinal studies to track disease progression and predict symptom onset without the need for invasive procedures. The ultimate goal is to create a theranostic agent that can both detect and treat oxidative stress in the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from neurological conditions such as ALS, traumatic brain injury, or other disorders associated with oxidative stress.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to oxidative stress or those who do not have access to the imaging technology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a groundbreaking method for diagnosing and treating neurological diseases by enabling personalized treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using imaging agents for oxidative stress is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of medical imaging and treatment.

Where this research is happening

Memphis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.