Using D-glucose to improve MRI imaging of cancer
Official title: Development and Translation of D-glucose as a Diagnostic Agent for MRI of Cancer
Funded at Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-10878944 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at using D-glucose, a natural sugar, as a safer and more effective way to improve MRI scans for people with brain cancer, helping doctors get important information about tumors and how they use glucose, which could lead to better treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $622,185 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB034978-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10878944 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing MRI scans for brain cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require MRI imaging or those with conditions unrelated to brain cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing D-glucose as a new contrast agent for MRI scans, particularly for brain cancer. By utilizing a natural substance like D-glucose, the study aims to enhance the safety and effectiveness of MRI imaging without the risks associated with traditional synthetic agents. The researchers will investigate how D-glucose can provide critical information about tumor physiology, including how tumors receive and use glucose, which could lead to better treatment monitoring. The approach is designed to be cost-effective and suitable for repeated use in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective MRI scans for cancer patients, improving diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of D-glucose in this context is novel, other studies have shown success with natural agents in medical imaging.
Where this research is happening
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Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Zijl, Peter Cm — Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
- Study coordinator: Van Zijl, Peter Cm
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.