Noninvasive blood test for brain tumors using focused ultrasound
Official title: Focused ultrasound-enabled brain tumor liquid biopsy
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11092770 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, gentle way to check for brain tumors using sound waves and a blood test, which could make it easier and safer for patients, especially those with glioblastoma, to get the information they need about their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $549,451 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB030102-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092770 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma or other neurological diseases requiring molecular diagnosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain tumors that are not glioblastoma or those who are not eligible for noninvasive diagnostic procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new technique called sonobiopsy, which uses focused ultrasound to perform a blood-based liquid biopsy for diagnosing brain tumors. The approach aims to provide a noninvasive method to gather molecular information about brain tumors, particularly glioblastoma, which is the most common primary brain tumor in adults. The research has already shown promising results in animal models and initial human trials, and it seeks to refine and validate a next-generation device that will make this technology more accessible and effective for patients. By integrating advanced imaging and ultrasound technology, this method could revolutionize how brain tumors are diagnosed and monitored.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer, noninvasive alternative for diagnosing and monitoring brain tumors, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success with similar noninvasive diagnostic techniques, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Hong — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Hong
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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.