Assessing brain health with portable MRI technology

Measuring Brain Health Using Low-Field Portable MRI

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10950708

This study is looking to make it easier and more affordable to check for brain health issues like stroke and Alzheimer's by using a new type of portable MRI to measure white matter hyperintensities, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding their brain health better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10950708 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the measurement of white matter hyperintensity (WMH), a key indicator of stroke and Alzheimer's disease risk, using low-field portable MRI (pMRI). The study aims to develop a new qualitative scale and a machine learning-based quantitative method for assessing WMH specifically tailored for pMRI. Participants will undergo both pMRI and conventional high-field MRI to validate the new measurement techniques. This innovative approach could make brain health assessments more accessible and cost-effective.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who may be at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accessible and accurate assessments of brain health, particularly for those at risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using machine learning and advanced imaging techniques for brain health assessments, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.