Mapping brain metabolites and neurotransmitters for better diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases
A New J-Resolved MRSI Framework for Whole-Brain Simultaneous Metabolite and Neurotransmitter Mapping
This study is working on a new way to take detailed pictures of brain chemicals to help doctors better understand brain health, which could lead to quicker and more accurate diagnoses for conditions like temporal lobe epilepsy and other brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10057847 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new framework for magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) that allows for high-resolution mapping of metabolites and neurotransmitters in the brain. By improving the speed and accuracy of imaging, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the physiological state of neural tissues, which can help identify biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases. Patients may benefit from this advanced imaging technique, which could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of conditions like temporal lobe epilepsy and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with suspected neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to brain function.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurological conditions or those who do not exhibit symptoms of neurodegeneration may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic capabilities for neurodegenerative diseases, allowing for earlier intervention and better patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for brain mapping, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in the field.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lam, Fan — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Lam, Fan
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.