Advanced MRI of the lower spinal cord in progressive multiple sclerosis
Multimodal, quantitative MRI in the lumbosacral spinal cord in progressive multiple sclerosis
Researchers will use detailed MRI scans of the lower (lumbosacral) spinal cord to look for imaging signs that link to disability in people with primary progressive multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11327353 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would get several types of noninvasive MRI scans focused on the lower spinal cord to capture damage that may not show up on standard scans. The team will compare these imaging measures with clinical symptoms like walking, bladder control, and autonomic function to find patterns. They plan to develop and test quantitative imaging markers that reflect the true extent of spinal cord injury in PPMS. If validated, these markers could be used alongside clinical exams to guide treatment and symptom management.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis, especially those with lower-limb, bladder, or autonomic symptoms who can undergo MRI, would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People without MS, those with other non-MS neurological conditions, or anyone with implanted devices or conditions that prevent MRI scanning may not benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could give doctors more accurate MRI signs of spinal cord damage to better guide treatment decisions and symptom care for people with progressive MS.
How similar studies have performed: Previous MRI studies have linked cervical spinal cord changes to disability in MS, but applying multimodal quantitative MRI specifically to the lumbosacral cord is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'grady, Kristin Poole — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: O'grady, Kristin Poole
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.