Advanced laser technology for improved lung imaging
Official title: Next-generation Lasers for Enabling Ultrafast Functional Pulmonary MRI
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-10984522 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of laser technology that uses special gas to create detailed 3D images of how your lungs work, which could help doctors better understand and treat conditions like asthma, COPD, and the effects of COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $231,207 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HL168430-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984522 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, or those experiencing long-term effects from COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-respiratory conditions or those who do not have any lung-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing next-generation laser technology to enhance the capabilities of functional pulmonary MRI. By utilizing hyperpolarized Xenon-129 gas, the study aims to create high-resolution 3D images of lung function, which can provide critical insights into conditions like asthma, COPD, and the lingering effects of COVID-19. The approach seeks to overcome current limitations in imaging modalities that primarily assess lung structure rather than function. Patients may benefit from more accurate diagnoses and monitoring of their lung conditions through this innovative imaging technique.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective diagnosis and management of various lung diseases, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using hyperpolarized gas MRI for lung imaging, indicating a potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chekmenev, Eduard — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Chekmenev, Eduard
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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.