Improving brain imaging techniques for better understanding mental health and aging

Personalized spatiotemporal hemodynamic response models for functional magnetic resonance imaging

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10891615

This study is looking at new ways to use brain scans to better understand how our brains work when it comes to mental health and aging, and it’s for anyone from kids to seniors who want to help improve treatments for mental health conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10891615 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) methods to better understand brain activity related to mental health disorders and aging. By developing personalized models of the hemodynamic response function (HRF), the study aims to address inaccuracies that arise from using a one-size-fits-all approach in fMRI analysis. The research will utilize a large dataset of individuals aged 5 to 100 to evaluate different HRF models and their effectiveness in decoding cognitive states and emotional conditions. This innovative approach could lead to more accurate assessments of brain function and improved treatment strategies for various mental health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 5 to 100 who are experiencing mental health issues or cognitive changes related to aging.

Not a fit: Patients with severe neurological disorders or those unable to undergo fMRI due to medical contraindications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise brain imaging techniques that improve diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders and age-related cognitive decline.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in improving fMRI techniques, but this approach of personalizing HRF models across a wide age range is relatively novel.

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 2026-06-13 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.