Precision MRI with Protein Contrast for Noninvasive Lung Fibrosis Detection
Official title: Precision MRI with Protein Contrast Agent for Noninvasive Detection of Lung Fibrosis
Funded at Inlighta Biosciences, LLC · NIH-11402700 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new MRI method using a protein-based contrast agent to detect early and local lung scarring in people with suspected lung fibrosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Inlighta Biosciences, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Marietta, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,026,874 |
| NIH project number | 5R42HL170898-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11402700 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults with suspected or known lung fibrosis who may benefit from earlier or more precise imaging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without fibrotic lung disease or who are unable to undergo MRI may see no direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to develop a noninvasive MRI technique that highlights collagen-rich areas in the lungs before they become visible on standard tests. Researchers will study a protein contrast agent called ProCA32.collagen in mice with lung fibrosis to understand its safety and how well it distinguishes fibrotic tissue. The work plans to move from preclinical studies toward clinical use, with the goal of enabling earlier and more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of disease activity. Findings could lead to better, less risky diagnostics for patients with IPF, COPD, and related lung conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could receive earlier, noninvasive diagnosis and better monitoring of fibrosis progression or response to treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Prior imaging approaches struggle with early detection; this approach is innovative and builds on protein-based contrast work, with potential for significant improvements.
Where this research is happening
-
Inlighta Biosciences, LLC
Marietta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Jenny J. — Inlighta Biosciences, LLC
- Study coordinator: Yang, Jenny J.
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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.