New imaging technique to study cancer cell metabolism

Bio-orthogonal Mid-Infrared Photothermal Imaging of Cancer Metabolism

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) · NIH-10917502

This study is exploring how cancer cells behave and change their energy use, and it's designed for cancer patients to help develop a new imaging technique that lets doctors see what's happening inside tumors in real-time, which could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10917502 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how cancer cells change their metabolism and interact with their environment, which can lead to more aggressive behavior or resistance to treatments. The team aims to develop a novel imaging technique called bio-orthogonal mid-infrared photothermal imaging, which allows for real-time observation of cancer metabolism without damaging the cells. By using specialized probes, this method seeks to provide detailed insights into the chemical processes occurring within tumors, potentially leading to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies for cancer patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with various types of cancer who are undergoing treatment or monitoring.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not currently receiving treatment for cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the understanding of cancer metabolism, leading to better diagnostic tools and more effective treatments for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using mid-infrared imaging is innovative, similar techniques in cancer metabolism research have shown promise, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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 →

Conditions: Cancers

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.