Developing brain metabolism biomarkers using advanced imaging techniques

TRD 2: Metabolic Markers

NIH-funded research Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-11112352

This study is working on new ways to look at how the brain uses energy by using special imaging techniques, which could help researchers better understand brain health and conditions like depression or anxiety, and they plan to share their findings with others to help advance this important work.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11112352 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating new biomarkers that can help understand brain metabolism through advanced imaging techniques like magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and chemical exchange-saturation transfer imaging (CEST-MRI). By developing innovative editing schedules for MRS, the team aims to simultaneously identify several important low-concentration metabolites, including neurotransmitters and antioxidants. The project will also utilize deep learning tools to enhance data analysis and improve the specificity of metabolite detection. The findings and tools developed will be shared with other research projects to ensure reproducibility and broader application.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological conditions or those undergoing evaluation for brain metabolism issues.

Not a fit: Patients with no neurological concerns or those not undergoing brain imaging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools for brain-related conditions, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for metabolic analysis, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 2026-06-09 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.