Motion-tolerant MRI for young children
Next Generation Pediatric Neuroimaging (NGPN) Development
['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · CHAMPAIGN IMAGING, LLC · NIH-11168945
This project is building MRI technology that captures clear brain images of young children with autism even if they move, so they may not need general anesthesia.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CHAMPAIGN IMAGING, LLC (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Shoreview, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11168945 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are creating new MRI hardware, scanning methods, and image-reconstruction software designed to work when children move during the scan. The system aims to provide high-quality brain pictures for many MRI types (like structural, diffusion, perfusion, and functional imaging) without putting a child under anesthesia. The team will prototype special coils and switching hardware, develop faster motion-robust pulse sequences, and use improved reconstruction algorithms to clean motion-related artifacts. If testing goes well, this technology would be used at clinics and research centers to make scanning safer and more reliable for children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children (especially those aged 0–11) with autism or other developmental conditions who need brain MRI but have difficulty staying still are the ideal candidates for testing this technology.
Not a fit: People who can cooperate with standard MRI without movement, adults who do not need pediatric imaging, or those with MRI contraindications (like certain implants) are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reduce or eliminate the need for general anesthesia during pediatric brain MRI, making scans safer and easier to obtain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work on motion-correction and child-friendly MRI shows promising results for reducing motion artifacts, but a single system covering all major MRI contrasts and eliminating anesthesia is a newer, less-tested goal.
Where this research is happening
Shoreview, UNITED STATES
- CHAMPAIGN IMAGING, LLC — Shoreview, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CORUM, CURTIS ANDREW — CHAMPAIGN IMAGING, LLC
- Study coordinator: CORUM, CURTIS ANDREW
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.
Conditions: Autistic Disorder