Mapping brain metabolism in neurological diseases
Deuterium metabolic imaging (DMI) of neurological disease
This study is testing a new way to take pictures of how your brain uses nutrients, which could help doctors better understand and track conditions like Alzheimer's and brain tumors, all without needing any invasive procedures.
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 ID | NIH-11113974 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new imaging technique called Deuterium Metabolic Imaging (DMI) to assess brain metabolism in patients with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and brain tumors. By using advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the study aims to provide a non-invasive way to visualize how the brain metabolizes nutrients, which can help in tracking disease progression and evaluating treatment effectiveness. The approach focuses on improving the sensitivity and robustness of metabolic imaging, making it more applicable in clinical settings. Patients may undergo imaging sessions where their brain metabolism is assessed using deuterated substances, allowing for a better understanding of their neurological condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or brain tumors who are seeking advanced imaging options.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions that do not significantly alter brain metabolism may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and monitoring tools for patients with neurological diseases, enhancing treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise with advanced metabolic imaging techniques, but DMI represents a novel approach that has not yet been widely tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Graaf, Robin a — Yale University
- Study coordinator: De Graaf, Robin a
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 below.