NIH-funded research Career grant

Investigating brain chemistry using advanced imaging techniques

Official title: Downfield MR spectroscopic imaging of the human brain

Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10841623 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on new ways to take detailed pictures of brain chemistry to help doctors better understand and treat brain conditions, so patients can have more accurate diagnoses and improved treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project startJune 1, 2023
Project endMay 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$136,231
NIH project number5K99EB034768-02
Project IDNIH-10841623 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing neurological symptoms or have been diagnosed with brain tumors.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to brain chemistry or those under 21 years old may not receive benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced imaging techniques to analyze brain chemistry through downfield magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (DF-MRSI). The approach involves creating optimized 3D imaging methods that can capture detailed chemical signals from the brain, which may provide insights into various neurological conditions. By utilizing high-field MRI systems, the study aims to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of brain imaging, ultimately leading to better diagnostic tools. Patients may benefit from improved understanding and treatment options for brain-related conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments for brain tumors and other neurological disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques for brain imaging, but this specific approach to downfield MRSI is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • Johns Hopkins University
    Baltimore, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Özdemir, İpek — Johns Hopkins University
  • Study coordinator: Özdemir, İpek

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.