Tryptophan-based PET imaging to map glioma metabolism
Official title: Tryptophan-kynurenine pathway PET imaging in human gliomas.
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-11447576 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new PET imaging tracer uses labeled tryptophan to visualize brain tumor metabolism in adults with gliomas, helping doctors see tumors more clearly and tailor treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $513,901 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA309136-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11447576 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults aged 21 and older with malignant glioma, including glioblastoma, who may benefit from advanced metabolic imaging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with gliomas outside the brain regions of interest or those unable to undergo PET imaging may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project will translate a novel F-18 labeled tracer, FETrp, for PET imaging of the tryptophan metabolism pathway in adult glioma patients. Using multi-modal imaging and advanced data analysis, researchers aim to improve detection, distinguish treatment effects from true progression, and predict outcomes. The work builds on prior early studies and focuses on making the imaging approach clinically feasible and informative for guiding therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could receive more accurate tumor imaging, better treatment decisions, and potentially improved survival through more targeted therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous proof-of-concept studies with a short-lived tryptophan tracer showed strong tumor detection and outcome prediction, and this project aims to translate a longer-lasting tracer for routine clinical use.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Juhasz, Csaba — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Juhasz, Csaba
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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.