Improving MRI technology to better visualize brain networks
Official title: Development of Layer Specific FMRI for Clinical Scanners
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10589648 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new MRI technology that helps doctors see detailed images of the brain without surgery, making it easier to understand and diagnose brain conditions using regular MRI machines found in many hospitals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | September 19, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $390,616 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB032514-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10589648 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions or those requiring detailed brain imaging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not require advanced imaging techniques or those who cannot undergo MRI scans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of MRI technology called Layer Specific FMRI, which allows for non-invasive examination of brain networks without the need for surgical procedures. The goal is to make this advanced imaging technique feasible for standard 3T MRI scanners, which are commonly used in many hospitals and research institutions. By enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio and reducing scan times, this research aims to provide clearer images of brain structures and their functions. This could lead to better understanding and diagnosis of neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the ability to diagnose and understand brain disorders through enhanced imaging techniques.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques, but this specific approach to Layer Specific FMRI at 3T scanners is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hernandez-Garcia, Luis — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Hernandez-Garcia, Luis
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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.