NIH-funded research R21 grant

New ultrasound method for better breast imaging

Official title: Shear Wave Reciprocity for Breast Imaging

Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10884333 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new ultrasound technique that could help doctors get clearer images of breast tissue to better detect and understand breast cancer, making it easier to identify any issues before a biopsy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project startJuly 7, 2023
Project endApril 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$231,000
NIH project number5R21EB034769-02
Project IDNIH-10884333 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing evaluation for breast lesions or those scheduled for breast biopsy.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have breast lesions or those who have already been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel ultrasound imaging technique called shear-wave reciprocity imaging (SRI) that aims to enhance the diagnostic capabilities for breast cancer detection. By focusing on the sound speed and attenuation of breast tissue, SRI seeks to provide clearer images that reveal important diagnostic information not visible in traditional ultrasound methods. The approach involves using acoustic radiation force to measure variations in tissue properties, which can help in accurately categorizing breast lesions before biopsy. The study will implement this technique on a linear-array imaging system and validate its effectiveness using both in vivo and ex vivo breast tissue samples.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate breast cancer diagnoses and improved treatment planning for patients.

How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in enhancing diagnostic accuracy in other areas of medical imaging.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Rochester
    Rochester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mcaleavey, Stephen a — University of Rochester
  • Study coordinator: Mcaleavey, Stephen a

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.