High-resolution MRI mapping of how adult muscles use energy
In vivo Mapping of Muscle Specific Metabolism
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11243500
This project uses advanced MRI scans to map how different adult muscles use and recover energy during and after brief exercise.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11243500 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would get non-invasive MRI scans that measure muscle energy molecules like creatine and ATP before and after short exercise bouts, rather than having a biopsy. The team combines traditional phosphorus-31 MRS with a newer CrCEST MRI method to get much finer, muscle-by-muscle images of metabolism. Scans track how quickly muscles rebuild their high-energy stores after exertion, which reflects their mitochondrial (oxidative) capacity. These tests are done in adults and are designed to compare different muscle groups and how they change with aging.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21 years and older) who can undergo MRI and perform brief exercise challenges, including healthy older adults or people concerned about muscle aging or metabolic muscle issues, would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People under 21, those who cannot tolerate MRI (for example, due to metal implants or severe claustrophobia), or those unable to perform the brief exercise may not be eligible or benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could offer a non-invasive way to diagnose muscle metabolic problems and guide personalized strategies to preserve strength and function with aging.
How similar studies have performed: Phosphorus-31 MRS has been used for decades to study muscle energetics but has low anatomic detail, and the CrCEST MRI technique is a newer, promising approach that remains less widely tested in large human populations.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: REDDY, RAVINDER — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: REDDY, RAVINDER
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 below.