NIH-funded research R01 grant

Using advanced imaging to predict outcomes in early-stage triple negative breast cancer

Official title: Label-Free Optical Redox Imaging for Pretreatment Prognosis of Early-Stage Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10931683 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring a new imaging technique that looks at the unique metabolism of early-stage triple negative breast cancer tumors to help doctors understand how the cancer might behave and create personalized treatment plans for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startSeptember 19, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$626,956
NIH project number5R01CA277037-02
Project IDNIH-10931683 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage triple negative breast cancer who have not yet received treatment.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-triple negative breast cancer or those who have already undergone treatment may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of Label-Free Optical Redox Imaging (ORI) to assess the metabolic characteristics of early-stage triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) tumors. By analyzing the intrinsic fluorescence signals of specific molecules within the tumor, the study aims to identify different metabolic subtypes that may influence disease progression. This innovative imaging technique offers a high-resolution, three-dimensional view of the tumor's microenvironment, potentially providing more accurate prognostic information than traditional methods. Patients with TNBC may benefit from this approach by receiving tailored treatment plans based on their tumor's unique metabolic profile.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for patients with early-stage triple negative breast cancer, improving their chances of favorable outcomes.

How similar studies have gone: Preliminary results from earlier studies using similar imaging techniques have shown promise in predicting disease progression, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Pennsylvania
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Li, Lin Z — University of Pennsylvania
  • Study coordinator: Li, Lin Z

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.