New optical technologies for understanding and treating diseases

Emerging Diffuse Optical Imaging Technologies for Precision Medicine

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11123512

This study is exploring a new way to use special light to look at deep tissues in the body, which could help doctors better understand and treat conditions like brain injuries and cancer, giving patients more personalized care.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11123512 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced diffuse optical imaging technologies that use near-infrared light to non-invasively examine deep tissues in the body. By analyzing how this light interacts with tissues, researchers can gather important information about various physiological parameters, such as blood flow and tissue composition. This approach aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of conditions like brain injuries and cancer by providing precise, real-time insights into tissue health. Patients may benefit from more accurate assessments and tailored therapies based on their unique biological markers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with brain injuries or those undergoing treatment for cancers such as breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve deep tissue assessment or those who are not undergoing treatment for the specified conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise and effective treatments for conditions like cancer and brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using diffuse optical technologies for medical applications, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injuryanti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.