Creating a new MRI contrast agent to improve lung fibrosis imaging
Official title: Development of Protein MRI Contrast Agent for Precision Imaging Lung Fibrosis
Funded at Georgia State University · NIH-11291381 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of MRI contrast agent made from proteins to help doctors get clearer pictures of lung fibrosis, which can make it hard to breathe, especially in kids and pregnant women, without using harmful radiation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $443,690 |
| NIH project number | 4R33HL173984-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11291381 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with early-stage lung fibrosis or those at risk for developing lung diseases, particularly children and pregnant women.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced lung disease or those who do not have fibrotic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel protein-based MRI contrast agent designed to enhance the imaging of lung fibrosis, a serious condition affecting breathing. By targeting collagen, which is overexpressed in fibrotic lung tissues, the agent aims to provide clearer and more accurate images of lung conditions without the risks associated with ionizing radiation. This approach is particularly beneficial for vulnerable populations, such as children and pregnant women, as it allows for safer monitoring of lung disease progression. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques to overcome existing challenges in lung MRI, such as motion artifacts and low tissue density.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of lung fibrosis, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted MRI contrast agents for imaging various conditions, suggesting a potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgia State University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Jenny J. — Georgia State University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Jenny J.
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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.