Using advanced MRI to assess orodental injury after cancer treatment
Official title: Quantitative Imaging Biomarker Prospective Validation of Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI as a Metric of Orodental Injury After Radiotherapy (QI-ProVE-MRI)
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11006292 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of MRI can help check for dental injuries in people who have had radiation treatment for head and neck cancer, so we can better understand and manage any long-term problems they might face.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $704,812 |
| NIH project number | 5U01DE032168-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11006292 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have received radiation therapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and are experiencing or at risk for orodental complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not undergone radiation therapy for head and neck cancers or those with pre-existing orodental conditions unrelated to cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) to evaluate orodental injuries in patients who have undergone radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. By focusing on the effects of radiation on critical structures like salivary glands and jawbone, the study aims to develop a standardized method for monitoring and diagnosing complications such as osteoradionecrosis. Patients will undergo DCE-MRI scans to assess changes in bone vascularity and healing, which could help identify those at risk for long-term complications. The findings could lead to improved management strategies for cancer survivors experiencing these side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a reliable method for early detection and management of orodental injuries in cancer survivors, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using DCE-MRI for assessing treatment effects in cancer patients, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lai, Stephen Y — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Lai, Stephen Y
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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.