Noninvasive mapping to predict liver cancer aggressiveness
Noninvasive High-Resolution Mapping of HCC Tumor Biology Predictive of Malignancy
Using an advanced MRI method to map tumor metabolism in people with liver cancer to better predict which tumors will behave aggressively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11263728 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses a specialized MRI technique called CEST to image the chemical makeup of liver tumors without needing a biopsy. Researchers will test the approach in a pig model that closely mimics human liver cancer to see if creatine metabolism patterns match tumor aggressiveness. The goal is to find imaging markers that identify small or unusual cancers, predict how fast they will grow, and tell true progression from treatment-related changes. Successful markers could be translated into scanners used for patients at clinical centers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who are undergoing MRI or being considered for local or systemic therapy would be the most relevant candidates for future clinical use of this technique.
Not a fit: Patients without liver tumors, with non-HCC cancers, or those who cannot have MRI scans are unlikely to directly benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help doctors choose the right treatment and detect true tumor progression earlier than current imaging allows.
How similar studies have performed: Early preclinical and limited clinical work with CEST MRI has shown promise for detecting metabolic changes, but applying it to predict HCC aggressiveness and guide treatment is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cai, Kejia — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Cai, Kejia
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 below.