Creating a quick MRI method to assess carotid plaque without contrast agents

Development of a practical quantitative non-contrast approach for cerebrovascular MRI

NIH-funded research VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System · NIH-11043334

This study is testing a new, faster MRI method to check for dangerous plaque in the carotid arteries without using contrast dye, making it easier for veterans with carotid disease to get the care they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Salt Lake City Healthcare System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11043334 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a new, rapid MRI technique that can evaluate carotid plaque without the need for gadolinium-based contrast agents. By using a combination of innovative imaging sequences, the study seeks to accurately identify vulnerable plaque components in a shorter time frame, making it more accessible for patients. The research will involve a multicenter approach, testing the new method on veterans with carotid disease to ensure its effectiveness and reliability. The goal is to streamline the imaging process to enhance stroke risk assessment and treatment personalization.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with carotid disease who require imaging to evaluate their stroke risk.

Not a fit: Patients without carotid disease or those who do not meet the criteria for the imaging assessments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and faster way to assess stroke risk in patients with carotid disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using non-contrast MRI for carotid plaque assessment is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other imaging contexts, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, 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 brain vascular diseaseBrain Vascular Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.