Using natural sugar for safer MRI scans in cancer
Development and Translation of D-glucose as a Diagnostic Agent for MRI of Cancer
This project is developing a new, safer way to see cancer on MRI scans using a simple sugar called D-glucose instead of traditional contrast agents.
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 ID | NIH-11139602 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many patients receive MRI scans with contrast agents that can have side effects or accumulate in the body over time. This project aims to create a new MRI contrast agent using D-glucose, a natural sugar, which could be much safer and allow for more frequent scans. Researchers will first focus on using this new method for brain cancer, with plans to expand its use for other types of cancer. The goal is to provide doctors with clearer information about tumor size, activity, and how well treatments are working.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is initially focused on patients with brain cancer who may need MRI scans, but it aims for broader application to other cancer types in the future.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require MRI scans for cancer diagnosis or monitoring would not directly benefit from this specific development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to a safer and more affordable MRI contrast agent, reducing potential risks for patients and allowing for more frequent monitoring of cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While D-glucose is widely used in medicine, its application as a direct MRI contrast agent is a novel approach that builds on existing understanding of tumor metabolism.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- 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 below.