Using a new protein contrast agent for better MRI detection of lung fibrosis
Official title: Precision MRI with a Novel Protein Contrast Agent for Early Detection and Staging of Lung Fibrosis
Funded at Inlighta Biosciences, LLC · NIH-10760794 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to spot lung fibrosis, especially idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), using a special protein in MRI scans, which could help doctors find the disease earlier and more accurately without using harmful radiation.
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, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $298,840 |
| NIH project number | 1R41HL170898-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10760794 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals at high risk for lung fibrosis, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to air pollutants.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced lung fibrosis or those who do not have any lung disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection and staging of lung fibrosis, particularly idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), using a novel protein contrast agent in MRI imaging. Current imaging techniques, like high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), often miss early-stage disease and can have significant error rates. By leveraging the advantages of MRI, such as high resolution and no ionizing radiation, this study aims to develop a noninvasive method to accurately visualize lung changes associated with fibrosis. The approach seeks to overcome existing challenges in lung imaging, providing a more reliable diagnostic tool for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of lung fibrosis, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While MRI has been challenging for lung imaging, there is potential for success based on advancements in imaging technologies and contrast agents in other areas of medical imaging.
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.