Detecting lung problems in children after stem cell transplants using advanced MRI techniques.
Official title: Early detection of pulmonary complications of hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation in children using hyperpolarized xenon MRI
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11010031 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to spot lung problems early in kids who have had a stem cell transplant, using a special type of MRI that makes it easier for them, so they don’t have to do the usual lung tests; the aim is to catch any issues sooner to help keep their lungs healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $634,864 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL166335-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010031 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 18 years old who have undergone hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation and are unable to perform standard lung function tests.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 18 years or those who have not undergone hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection of lung complications in children who have undergone hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). It utilizes a novel imaging technique called hyperpolarized xenon MRI, which allows for detailed visualization of lung function without requiring children to perform traditional lung tests like spirometry. By identifying lung issues earlier, the goal is to provide timely interventions that can prevent further damage and improve overall health outcomes for these young patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of lung complications in children after stem cell transplants, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for lung diagnostics, but this specific approach with hyperpolarized xenon MRI in pediatric HSCT patients is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walkup, Laura Lee — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Walkup, Laura Lee
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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.