Investigating heart tissue scarring using advanced MRI techniques

Assessing myocardial fibrosis with spin locked MRI

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-11073890

This study is looking at a new MRI method to better see heart scarring, which can help doctors understand heart diseases without needing special dyes, and it aims to improve how we monitor and treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11073890 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding myocardial fibrosis, a condition that can indicate various heart diseases. By utilizing a new MRI technique called spin locking or T1rho imaging, the study aims to assess heart tissue scarring more effectively without the use of contrast agents like gadolinium. The research will involve preclinical models to evaluate different MRI methods and their ability to predict myocardial fibrosis. This could lead to better monitoring of heart conditions and treatment responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with known or suspected myocardial fibrosis or other cardiac conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without any cardiac issues or those who do not have access to advanced MRI technology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-invasive method to better diagnose and monitor heart diseases, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques for cardiac assessment, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.