SUMMARY
Ajit H. Goenka, M.D., is a radiologist and nuclear medicine specialist whose research emphasizes the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced molecular imaging techniques to improve early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and other gastrointestinal cancers. Dr. Goenka's work addresses critical gaps in managing these cancers, with the aim of improving outcomes and streamlining care.
Dr. Goenka investigates hybrid imaging, especially combining positron emission tomography (PET) scanning and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). He also studies the theranostic potential of novel radiotracers for tailored treatments, which involves combining therapeutics and diagnostics. Dr. Goenka's use of AI also extends to population health, with efforts such as the opportunistic detection of diabetes, highlighting his comprehensive approach to healthcare innovations.
Focus areas
- Screening and early detection of gastrointestinal cancers. Dr. Goenka and his team have been at the forefront of leveraging AI and big data analytics to address critical challenges in the early detection of gastrointestinal cancer, especially pancreatic cancer. Their innovative work has adeptly navigated vast datasets of standard-of-care images to identify nuanced biomarkers that suggest early neoplastic changes at a stage when cure would be a potential option.
- Next-generation imaging to improve oncologic outcomes. Dr. Goenka and his team have skillfully incorporated advancements in imaging technology to seamlessly integrate cutting-edge biomarkers into standard clinical practice. Using the innovative capabilities of combined PET scanning and MRI, the team has validated and applied these novel biomarkers to precise staging, meticulous evaluation of therapeutic responses, and robust prognostic predictions in pancreatic cancer and neuroendocrine tumors.
- Novel radiotracers and theranostics. Dr. Goenka specializes in exploring theranostic radiotracers, informed by the intricate biological dynamics of the tumor microenvironment. Dr. Goenka and his team emphasize precision diagnostics, accurate staging and use of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) for specific oncologic conditions. PRRT represents a paradigm shift in personalized medicine by tailoring minimally invasive treatments to the distinct biological characteristics of an individual's tumor.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Goenka's research presents an opportunity for earlier cancer detection and the possibility of prompt, effective treatment.
Current imaging often identifies pancreatic cancer at advanced stages, when curative intervention is not likely. The novel AI models developed by Dr. Goenka and his team have resulted in a promising set of tools that can detect cancer at earlier stages, when surgery might be an option. Dr. Goenka's innovations in hybrid imaging can improve precise staging, individualized treatment plans, detailed treatment assessments and dependable prognosis predictions. His study of innovative theranostic radiotracers paves the way for targeted treatments and deepens scientific understanding of the biology of the disease. The result is improved outcomes, faster recoveries and a holistic care approach.
Given the wide and evolving role of imaging and theranostics, Dr. Goenka's research holds promise not just for pancreatic cancer but also for other oncologic and nononcologic uses.
Professional highlights
- National Cancer Institute:
- Principal investigator, Quantitative In Vivo 68Ga-Fibroblast-Activation-Protein-Inhibitors-46 PET Imaging of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma, 2022-2027.
- Co-principal investigator, Optimizing Pancreatic Cancer Management With Next Generation Imaging and Liquid Biopsy, 2021-2026.
- Co-chair, Imaging and Radiation Therapy Committee, Office of Sponsor and Regulatory Oversight, 2023.
- Reviewer, Special Emphasis Panel, Pancreatic Cancer Detection Consortium, 2022-2023.
- Principal investigator, Early Detection, Accurate Staging, and Biologic Characterization of HCC With Hybrid 68Ga-PSMA-Dual-Contrast PET/MRI and PET/CT Using Cyclotron-Produced 68Ga, Department of Defense, Office of the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, 2019-2023.
- Mayo Clinic:
- Chair, PET/MR Clinical Practice, Research and Development, 2020.
- Co-chair, Nuclear Radiology Research Operations, 2019.