Upgrading a medical cyclotron for better imaging
Official title: Revitalization and upgrade of cyclotron
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10847878 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on upgrading a special machine at Massachusetts General Hospital to make it easier and faster to produce the materials needed for PET scans, which could help patients in the Boston area get better access to important imaging tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $597,593 |
| NIH project number | 1S10OD036202-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10847878 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include patients undergoing PET scans for various medical conditions, particularly those related to brain and nervous system disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require PET imaging or those who are not located in the Boston area may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the capabilities of a medical cyclotron at Massachusetts General Hospital to improve the production of imaging isotopes used in positron emission tomography (PET) scans. By upgrading the existing cyclotron instead of replacing it, the project aims to extend its operational lifespan and increase the efficiency of radiotracer production. This will support ongoing clinical trials and provide essential resources for researchers and healthcare providers in the Boston area. Patients may benefit from improved access to advanced imaging techniques that rely on these isotopes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced imaging capabilities, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and better treatment planning for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully demonstrated the benefits of upgrading medical imaging facilities, making this approach both practical and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hooker, Jacob M. — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Hooker, Jacob M.
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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.