Using AI to improve radiation therapy for lung cancer
Official title: Early-Stage Clinical Trial of AI-Driven CBCT-Guided Adaptive Radiotherapy for Lung Cancer
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11079640 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to use artificial intelligence to make better images for radiation therapy in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer, so that doctors can more accurately target the treatment as the tumor changes, which could lead to better results for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $234,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EB033994-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079640 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer who are scheduled to undergo stereotactic body radiation therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced-stage lung cancer or those not eligible for radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the accuracy of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer by utilizing artificial intelligence. The study aims to develop a method that generates high-quality synthetic CT images and performs multi-organ segmentation using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. By improving the quality of these images, the research seeks to facilitate real-time adaptive radiation therapy, which can adjust treatment based on changes in tumor size and position. Patients may benefit from more precise targeting of radiation, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and effective radiation therapy for lung cancer patients, improving their chances of recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using AI for enhancing imaging and treatment accuracy in radiation therapy, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kesarwala, Aparna — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Kesarwala, Aparna
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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.