Improving brain imaging techniques to study schizophrenia
Official title: Robust and highly selective proton MRSI on a clinical 3 T system using a second order gradient insert, for application in schizophrenia
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10741355 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on improving brain imaging techniques to get a clearer picture of glutamate, a key chemical, in people with schizophrenia, which could help doctors better understand and treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | September 20, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $460,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB033911-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10741355 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who are interested in understanding their condition better.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Spectroscopic Imaging (MRS/MRSI) techniques to better understand the role of glutamate in schizophrenia. By developing methods to reduce interference from lipid signals in the brain, the study aims to provide clearer images and more accurate measurements of glutamate and glutamine levels. This could lead to a better understanding of the brain's chemistry in individuals with schizophrenia, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment options. The research will be conducted using a clinical 3 Tesla MRI system, which is commonly available in medical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for patients with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using MRS/MRSI techniques have shown promise in understanding brain chemistry, but this specific approach aims to overcome significant limitations faced in earlier research.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Graaf, Robin a — Yale University
- Study coordinator: De Graaf, Robin a
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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.