Mapping more brain chemicals in one 3T MRI scan
Simultaneous Downfield and Upfield proton MRSI at 3T
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11176920
This project develops an MRI method that captures extra brain chemical signals in a single 3T scan for people getting brain imaging.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11176920 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project will create a new MRI pulse sequence to capture both downfield and upfield proton signals across the brain in one 3T scan. You would be scanned at Johns Hopkins using the new sequence while the team compares its sensitivity and reproducibility to their earlier method by scanning 10 healthy volunteers twice. They will also scan controlled metabolite solutions under set conditions to help identify which spectral peaks correspond to specific chemicals. The team will carefully check rigor and reproducibility to make sure the new approach reliably maps brain metabolic signals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults who can safely undergo a 3T MRI and are willing to travel to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore for research imaging.
Not a fit: People with MRI contraindications (for example certain implanted devices), those unable to travel to Baltimore, or those needing immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could let doctors see more metabolic information noninvasively in routine 3T scans, which may improve diagnosis and monitoring of brain conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Prior small studies, including the investigators' own work, have shown downfield signals can be imaged, but combining downfield and upfield mapping in a single 3T acquisition is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BARKER, PETER B — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: BARKER, PETER B
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.