Identifying imaging markers of nerve damage in multiple sclerosis
Official title: Toward a Validated in Vivo Imaging Marker of Axonal Damage Predictive of Progressive Disability in Multiple Sclerosis
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11064891 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how we can see nerve damage in people with multiple sclerosis using special imaging techniques, which could help us track how the disease changes over time and how well new treatments are working.
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 start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $516,993 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS118187-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064891 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who are experiencing varying degrees of disability.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurological conditions or those without a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how axonal damage, which is a key factor in the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS), can be detected using advanced imaging techniques. By employing high-gradient diffusion MRI, the study aims to visualize changes in axonal structure over time, particularly in relation to demyelination. The goal is to validate these imaging findings against tissue samples to better understand how nerve damage evolves in MS patients. This could lead to improved monitoring of disease progression and the effectiveness of new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a reliable imaging method to track nerve damage in MS, potentially leading to better treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to assess axonal damage in MS, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Susie Yi — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Huang, Susie Yi
Related research
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-
Low-Load BFR Training to Help People with Advanced MS Improve Strength
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Gentle strength training with blood flow restriction for people with advanced MS
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Mediterranean diet, biological aging, and multiple sclerosis progression
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Protecting against disability in early Multiple Sclerosis
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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.