Creating a brain scan template and biomarkers for children's spinal cord health

Development of an MRI Template & Neuroimaging Biomarkers of the Pediatric Spinal Cord

NIH-funded research Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10775825

This study is looking at how to better understand spinal cord injuries in kids by using new MRI techniques to see how serious the injury is and how well they might recover, which could help doctors improve how they diagnose and treat these injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10775825 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding spinal cord injuries in children by developing advanced MRI techniques to assess the extent of injury and recovery potential. The team aims to create a standardized imaging template for the pediatric spinal cord and establish quantitative biomarkers using methods like diffusion tensor imaging and diffusion kurtosis imaging. By applying these innovative imaging techniques, the research seeks to provide clearer insights into the neurological consequences of spinal cord injuries in children, which can improve diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0 to 21 who have experienced spinal cord injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries who are older than 21 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnosis and treatment options for children with spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise using advanced MRI techniques in adult populations, but this approach is novel in the pediatric context.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
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.