Using magnetic particles to improve cancer treatment through heat generation and imaging.

Precision magnetic hyperthermia by integrating magnetic particle imaging

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10864990

This study is exploring a new way to make cancer treatment better by using tiny magnetic particles that heat up when a magnetic field is applied, helping to improve radiation therapy and reduce side effects, so patients can have a more effective and targeted treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10864990 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing cancer treatment by using magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONPs) that can be activated to generate heat when exposed to a magnetic field. This method, known as magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH), aims to improve the effectiveness of radiation therapy by precisely controlling the heating of cancerous tissues. The study integrates advanced imaging technology to visualize the distribution of these nanoparticles in real-time, which could lead to better treatment outcomes and reduced side effects. Patients may benefit from a more targeted and effective cancer treatment approach that minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with specific types of cancer, particularly those who may benefit from enhanced radiation therapy, such as breast cancer or glioblastoma.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not respond to hyperthermia or those who are not candidates for radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer cancer treatments by improving the precision of heat delivery to tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with magnetic fluid hyperthermia in treating prostate cancer and glioblastoma, indicating potential for success with this integrated approach.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Conditions Breast Cancer ModelCancer TreatmentCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.