Advanced imaging techniques for assessing lumbar disc health.
Ultrashort Echo Time Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Lumbar Intervertebral Disc.
This study is testing new MRI techniques to get a clearer picture of the health of the discs in your lower back, which can help us understand and treat issues like back pain better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11037935 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to better evaluate the health of intervertebral discs in the lumbar region, which are often affected by degeneration and chronic low back pain. By utilizing ultrashort echo time (UTE) sequences, the study aims to provide detailed insights into the biochemical composition of the discs, including the presence of proteoglycans and collagen. This non-invasive imaging approach seeks to enhance the understanding of disc degeneration and its impact on patients' health, potentially leading to improved diagnostic capabilities and treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic low back pain or those at risk of intervertebral disc degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with acute back injuries or those without any history of back pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better management of chronic low back pain, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques for assessing disc health, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Yajun — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ma, Yajun
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 below.