Improving fetal screening using advanced MRI technology
Official title: Improved Fetal Screening using 0.55T MRI
Funded at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles · NIH-11130816 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to improve how we check on babies during pregnancy for moms who have trouble getting clear ultrasound pictures, especially those who might be at higher risk or come from underserved communities, by using a special type of MRI that is safer and easier to access.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $707,218 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HD115284-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11130816 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women with high-risk factors such as obesity, oligohydramnios, or those who have had difficulty with standard ultrasound imaging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those with normal ultrasound imaging results may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance fetal screening for mothers who have difficulty obtaining clear ultrasound images due to various factors like obesity or low amniotic fluid. By utilizing a 0.55 Tesla MRI, the study seeks to provide a safer and more accessible imaging option for high-risk pregnancies. The approach focuses on improving the diagnosis of congenital anomalies, which can lead to better pregnancy management and outcomes. This method is particularly beneficial for women from underserved populations who may face barriers to traditional imaging techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of fetal abnormalities, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that advanced MRI techniques can improve fetal imaging outcomes, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wood, John C — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Wood, John C
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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.