Using optical imaging to improve radiation dose measurement in cancer treatment

OPTICAL CHERENKOV IMAGING DOSIMETRY IN HUMAN RADIOTHERAPY

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10789870

This study is exploring a new way to take pictures of how radiation is affecting your skin during cancer treatment, which could help doctors deliver the right amount of radiation more accurately and improve your overall treatment experience.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10789870 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel method of optical imaging that captures Cherenkov radiation emitted from tissues during radiotherapy. By utilizing time-gated intensified cameras synchronized with radiation delivery, the study aims to create real-time visual maps of radiation doses received by patients' surface tissues. This technology could enhance the accuracy of dose delivery and documentation in radiotherapy, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. The approach combines imaging with existing calibration techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of radiation distribution in the body.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing external beam radiotherapy for conditions such as breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving radiotherapy or those with conditions that do not require radiation treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise and effective radiation treatments for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of Cherenkov imaging in humans is relatively novel, preliminary findings suggest promising potential for improving radiation dose measurement.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.