Mapping brain metabolism using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Simultaneous Downfield and Upfield proton MRSI at 3T
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10978830 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to take pictures of how your brain uses energy, using advanced scanning technology to get clearer and more detailed images, and it's for patients who want to help improve brain imaging methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $497,196 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS134694-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978830 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological conditions or those undergoing evaluation for brain disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable neurological conditions that do not require metabolic assessment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the way we visualize brain metabolism by developing a new imaging technique that can simultaneously capture important signals from both upfield and downfield regions of the brain. By utilizing advanced 3D magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) at a high magnetic field strength of 3T, the study aims to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of brain metabolic mapping. Patients will be scanned at two different time points to assess the reliability of this new method compared to existing techniques. The research also involves detailed analysis of specific metabolic signals under controlled conditions to better understand their significance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans for various brain disorders by providing deeper insights into brain metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for brain metabolism, but this specific approach is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barker, Peter B — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Barker, Peter B
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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.