Improving MRI scans to better visualize brain metabolism in tumors
Official title: Time-efficient MRI and deuterium metabolic imaging (DMI) through parallel signal acquisition
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11110364 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to take pictures of the brain that helps doctors see how brain tumors are using energy, which could make it easier to understand and treat these tumors while keeping the process quick and comfortable for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | June 8, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $426,782 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB034730-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110364 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with high-grade brain tumors who require imaging for treatment evaluation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with low-grade brain tumors or those without brain tumors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a new imaging technique called deuterium metabolic imaging (DMI) that allows for non-invasive mapping of metabolism in the brain. By combining DMI with standard MRI scans, the researchers aim to provide detailed insights into the metabolic processes of high-grade brain tumors, which can reveal abnormal metabolic activity known as the 'Warburg effect.' The approach is designed to be efficient, minimizing scan times while maximizing the information obtained, which could enhance patient comfort and compliance during imaging procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved detection and characterization of brain tumors, allowing for better treatment planning and patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise with metabolic imaging techniques, but DMI represents a novel approach that has not yet been widely tested in clinical settings.
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.