Using MRI to better predict aggressive prostate cancer in African American men

Racially-associated MRI analysis and modeling for predicting aggressive prostate cancer

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10929975

This study is working to better detect aggressive prostate cancer in African American men by using advanced MRI technology that looks at both the structure and function of the prostate, aiming to improve how we interpret these scans to help those at higher risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10929975 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the detection of aggressive prostate cancer in African American men, who are disproportionately affected by this disease. It utilizes multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI), a non-invasive imaging technique that combines anatomical and functional data to identify prostate tumors. The study aims to enhance the current interpretation standards by incorporating racially associated MRI characteristics, which have shown to affect detection rates. By developing a portable perfusion phantom to standardize measurements, the research seeks to improve the accuracy of cancer detection in this high-risk population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American men who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not African American or those without prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and timely diagnoses of aggressive prostate cancer in African American men, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that incorporating racial factors into medical imaging can improve diagnostic accuracy, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-13 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.