Imaging lung function in children while they breathe normally
Official title: Dynamic imaging of lung function in free-breathing subjects
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10981859 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to take pictures of how well lungs are working in kids and others who can't hold their breath, using a special gas that makes it easier for them to breathe normally while we check their lung function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $786,139 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL171482-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10981859 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children aged 0-11 years and individuals with conditions that impair their ability to hold their breath.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or those without lung function issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new imaging technique using hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI to assess lung function in children and other patients who cannot hold their breath. By allowing imaging during free breathing, the study will provide more accurate information about how well the lungs are working in real-time. The method involves a small tube connected to a facemask that delivers a specific amount of gas with each breath, making it easier for patients to participate without needing special training. This approach is particularly beneficial for young children and those with severe lung conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnosis and management of lung diseases in children and other patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using hyperpolarized gas MRI has shown promise, but this specific approach of free-breathing imaging is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rizi, Rahim R — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Rizi, Rahim R
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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.