How MRI machine magnetic switches can directly affect the heart
Modeling, measurement and prediction of cardiac magneto-stimulation thresholds
This project measures when and how rapid MRI magnetic-field switching can make the heart respond, with the aim of improving scan safety for people with heart concerns.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11173820 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I want to know whether the fast switching of MRI gradient coils can directly stimulate heart tissue. The team uses animal experiments (including canine measurements) combined with computer models to record and predict when cardiac magneto-stimulation occurs. They will compare these new measurements to existing safety limits that were based on simplified models and older animal tests. The work aims to produce more accurate thresholds so MRI systems can be made safer without unnecessarily strict limits.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who undergo MRI scans—especially those with arrhythmias, pacemakers, implanted cardiac devices, or other heart concerns—are most likely to benefit from improved safety guidelines.
Not a fit: Patients who never need MRI scans or whose health issues are unrelated to heart rhythm or cardiac safety are unlikely to see direct benefits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more accurate safety limits for MRI machines so scans can be faster and safer for people with heart conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Existing safety rules are based on simplified models and older animal experiments, so this combined direct-measurement-and-modeling approach is relatively new and seeks to fill a long-standing data gap.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guerin, Bastien — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Guerin, Bastien
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.