A new imaging system for lung function using a special gas
Official title: Free-Breathing Dynamic Cardiopulmonary Function Imaging System to use with Xenon MRI
Funded at Spinhance, LLC · NIH-11070224 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging device that uses a special gas to take real-time pictures of your lungs during MRI scans, so you won’t have to hold your breath, making it easier for everyone, no matter their age or health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Spinhance, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rydal, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $306,530 |
| NIH project number | 1R43HL178239-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070224 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with respiratory conditions, those requiring lung function assessments, and patients of any age who may benefit from improved imaging techniques.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any lung-related issues or those who are unable to undergo MRI due to contraindications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel imaging device that uses Hyperpolarized Xenon-129 gas to continuously monitor lung function during MRI scans. The device aims to provide real-time imaging without requiring patients to hold their breath, making it accessible for individuals of all ages and health conditions. By integrating physiological monitoring, the system will capture dynamic changes in airflow and blood flow, enhancing the accuracy of lung imaging. This innovative approach seeks to eliminate biases associated with traditional imaging methods and improve the overall quality of lung assessments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and accessible lung function assessments for patients, improving diagnosis and treatment planning.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of Hyperpolarized Xenon-129 in imaging has been explored in small-animal studies, this specific application in human lung imaging represents a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Spinhance, LLC
Rydal, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Emami, Kiarash — Spinhance, LLC
- Study coordinator: Emami, Kiarash
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Quality assurance phantom for lung hyperpolarized xenon MRI
A new 3D-printed phantom will help doctors and researchers test and standardize HP 129Xe lung MRI to better study how lungs transfer gas into the blood.
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.