Using targeted PET imaging and new treatment to predict and treat radiation-induced lung scarring
Official title: Utilizing integrin-targeted PET imaging and therapeutics to predict and treat radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11376191 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aims to use a special PET imaging button to see a specific protein (αvβ6) in the lungs after radiation and test a new drug to prevent or treat the scarring called RIPF.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 18, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $645,414 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA303248-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11376191 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with lung cancer who are receiving or have received radiation therapy and are at risk for RIPF.
✕Less likely to help
Patients not at risk for RIPF or not receiving radiation therapy may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on people who have lung cancer treated with radiation and may develop RIPF, a serious lung scar. It will test whether a PET scan that targets αvβ6 can safely identify early signs of RIPF in patients. The team will also study a new drug, IDL2965, in mice to see if it can prevent or reduce RIPF after radiation. If successful, the approach could lead to earlier detection and better options to protect lung function in patients. The research combines imaging, biomarkers, and a potential therapy to translate a mechanistic understanding of RIPF into patient care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may get earlier detection of RIPF and new treatment options to limit lung scarring and preserve breathing.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies showed that targeting αvβ6 can influence RIPF in preclinical models, supporting a potentially promising, but still experimental, approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bergom, Carmen — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Bergom, Carmen
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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.