Rigorous Exploration of Advanced CT and Hyperthermia Assisted Magnetic Particle Imaging for Medical Applications (REACT-MPI)

• Subject Area: Medical Physics, Biomedical Technology ; Hematology, Oncology ; Radiology
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 572590843

Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) is an emerging biomedical imaging modality that has made significant advances over the past two decades. Initial research focused on developing and stabilizing instrumentation, establishing the foundation for robust and reproducible imaging systems. These technical milestones now allow for systematic exploration of novel clinical applications that could transform diagnostics and therapy. Four recent developments highlight MPI’s growing potential: 1. Multi-Contrast MPI: By employing excitation at multiple frequencies, MPI can differentiate magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) characteristics in real time. This enables the extraction of detailed information about thermal behavior, molecular interactions, and cellular environments, broadening MPI’s role in evaluating tissue viability, molecular dynamics, and cell status. 2. Hyperthermia: MPI enables localized heating of MNPs for image-guided therapeutic use, such as targeted drug release or selective cell destruction. Simultaneous temperature monitoring offers a critical advantage in precision oncology, where spatial and thermal control are essential for safe and effective treatment. 3. Multimodal Imaging: Combining MPI with computed tomography (CT) yields a powerful hybrid imaging approach. It merges high-resolution anatomical data with MPI’s functional insights, supporting more accurate diagnoses and individualized treatment planning within a single imaging session. 4. Translation to Human Scale: MPI has entered the first-in-human phase. Systems designed for extremity imaging, such as the leg and head, have been developed. Preparatory studies in human cadavers and primates are ongoing, laying the groundwork for future clinical trials and marking a major step toward clinical adoption. This research initiative aims to validate and further develop MPI for a broad range of clinically relevant conditions, particularly inflammatory, vascular, and oncological diseases. Key goals include earlier detection and more precise characterization of malignancies. Central to this is the functionalization of MNPs, primarily superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), through antibody or cell conjugation for targeted imaging and therapy, with parallel assessment of toxicity and biocompatibility. The project also investigates the use of native nanoparticles as tracers to expand clinical applicability. Additionally, it integrates advanced artificial intelligence with state-of-the-art MPI hardware and innovative nanoparticle design to improve image reconstruction, interpretation, and overall clinical value. Continued innovation in MPI holds considerable promise for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, disease monitoring, and personalized therapy across a spectrum of pathological conditions, driving forward both medical research and clinical translation.

• DFG Programme: Major Instrumentation Initiatives
• Major Instrumentation: Device for MPI-CT-Hyperthermia
• Instrumentation Group: 3233 Nichtlineare Magnetpartikel Bildgebung, Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI)
• Applicant Institution: Universität zu Lübeck
• Application Partner: Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein; Campus Lübeck
• Leader: Professor Dr. Thorsten Buzug