About the Quantitative Imaging Network (QIN)

Background

Clinical oncologists are hampered by a lack of access to quantitative imaging analysis tools for measuring or predicting therapeutic response/outcome during clinical trials. The QIN program was initiated to support the development, optimization, and validation of quantitative imaging software tools and imaging methods that will give oncologists the confidence that imaging can provide a valuable clinical decision support for reliable patient care. The program has created an organized network of research teams under guidance from NCI program staff. The QIN was initiated in 2008 and has matured through several program announcements since inception in which the network grew from its early stages to over 40 research teams across the United States. Currently there are 16 active U.S. teams within the network. Additionally, the number of international Associate Member networks has significantly increased. Research associates from nine different countries are engaged in network activities.

Mission

Quantitative Imaging Network (QIN) is organized to improve the role of quantitative imaging for clinical decision making in oncology by the development and validation of data acquisition, analysis methods, and tools to tailor treatment to individual patients and to predict or monitor the response to drug or radiation therapy.

Goal

The goal of the program is to translate quantitative imaging methods and algorithms as clinical decision support tools into clinical utility, creating the condition where all imaging scanners perform as measuring instruments.