Using advanced MRI to predict how pancreatic cancer patients respond to treatment

Translating Hyperpolarized 13C MRI as a Novel Tool to Predict Treatment Response in Pancreatic Cancer

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11002701

This study is testing a new imaging technique to help doctors see how well treatments are working for patients with pancreatic cancer, so they can make better decisions about care and potentially improve outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11002701 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a novel imaging technique using hyperpolarized 13C MRI to monitor and predict treatment responses in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). By utilizing this advanced imaging method, the study seeks to provide more accurate and timely assessments of how well patients are responding to therapies, particularly in cases where surgery may be an option. The goal is to improve clinical decision-making by identifying effective treatments sooner and potentially guiding patients towards better outcomes. This approach addresses the limitations of current assessment tools that often fail to provide early indicators of treatment efficacy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, particularly those with localized disease who may be eligible for neoadjuvant therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced, non-resectable pancreatic cancer who are not candidates for surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for patients with pancreatic cancer, ultimately improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Similar research using advanced imaging techniques has shown promise in other cancer types, suggesting that this approach could be beneficial for pancreatic cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.