Improving MRI techniques for the thoracic spinal cord
Official title: Development of clinically translatable MRI methodologies for the thoracic spinal cord
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10728689 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on improving MRI scans of the thoracic spinal cord to help doctors get clearer images and make better diagnoses for people with spinal cord issues, especially by reducing blurriness caused by breathing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $175,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03TR004434-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10728689 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms related to thoracic spinal cord disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord ischemia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to the thoracic spinal cord or those who do not require MRI evaluations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods specifically for the thoracic spinal cord, which is crucial for diagnosing various spinal cord conditions. The project aims to develop advanced MRI techniques that can minimize motion artifacts caused by breathing, thereby improving image quality and diagnostic accuracy. By addressing the unique challenges of imaging this region, the research seeks to facilitate better clinical evaluations and treatment planning for patients with spinal cord diseases. The methodologies developed could also support translational research efforts in understanding spinal cord pathologies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and improved treatment strategies for patients with thoracic spinal cord conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that advancements in MRI technology can significantly improve imaging outcomes, suggesting a strong potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'grady, Kristin Poole — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: O'grady, Kristin Poole
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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.