Understanding how cancer cells absorb a specific imaging agent to improve PET scans

Studying heterogeneity in [18F] FDG accumulation at the individual cell level using Betabox technology to better understand PET scans of patient tumors

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11050371

This study is looking at how different types of cancer cells take up a special imaging agent used in PET scans, which helps doctors diagnose and track cancer, to find out if understanding these differences can lead to better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11050371 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how different cancer cells accumulate a specific imaging agent, [18F]FDG, which is used in PET scans for diagnosing and monitoring various cancers. By utilizing a new technology called BetaBox, the study aims to analyze [18F]FDG accumulation at the individual cell level, rather than just in bulk populations. This approach could reveal important differences among cancer cell subpopulations, potentially leading to better interpretation of PET scan results and more personalized treatment strategies for patients. The research will focus on understanding these differences to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung, colorectal, or esophageal cancers who are undergoing PET scans.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not undergoing PET scans may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate PET scan interpretations and improved cancer treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While studies have explored [18F]FDG accumulation in bulk populations, this research is novel in its focus on individual cell analysis using the BetaBox technology.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions anti-cancer therapycancer cellcancer cell genomecancer genomecancer metastasis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.