Using sound waves and imaging to improve cancer radiation therapy
Official title: Combined radiation acoustics and ultrasound imaging for real-time guidance in radiotherapy
Funded at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst · NIH-10896125 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to make cancer radiation treatments safer and more effective by using sound waves to track tumors in real-time, helping doctors deliver the right amount of radiation while protecting healthy tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $465,075 |
| NIH project number | 5R37CA222215-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896125 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy who may benefit from improved targeting of tumor locations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not receiving radiotherapy or those with tumors that are not amenable to this imaging technique may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of radiotherapy for cancer patients by developing a new method that combines radiation acoustics and ultrasound imaging. The goal is to create a real-time feedback system that accurately tracks the tumor's shape and location during treatment, allowing for precise radiation delivery. By measuring acoustic signals generated by the radiation, the researchers aim to reduce unnecessary exposure to healthy tissues, which can lead to fewer side effects. This innovative approach could significantly improve the safety and efficacy of cancer treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer treatments with fewer side effects for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using acoustic signals for real-time imaging during radiation therapy, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: El Naqa, Issam M. — H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst
- Study coordinator: El Naqa, Issam M.
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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.