MRI that detects inflammation in the liver
Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Inflammation
A new MRI approach that lights up inflamed liver tissue for people with long-term liver diseases like fatty liver (MASH) or chronic hepatitis B.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251970 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would get MRI scans using a special contrast agent that changes its signal when it encounters the oxidative conditions common in inflamed liver tissue. The team is developing and testing this oxidatively activated agent (Fe-PyC3A) with imaging to map where inflammation is present without needing a biopsy. Work includes comparing the MRI signal to known markers of liver inflammation and, where appropriate, to tissue or blood tests. The goal is to make it easier to follow liver disease over time and to help match patients to the right treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic liver conditions such as metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) or chronic hepatitis B who need evaluation or monitoring of liver inflammation are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People without liver disease, those whose problems are not driven by inflammation, or anyone with standard MRI exclusions (for example, certain implanted devices, severe claustrophobia, or pregnancy) may not benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could let doctors detect and monitor liver inflammation noninvasively, reduce the need for biopsies, and better guide treatment decisions.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical work with this oxidatively activated MRI probe has shown promising signal changes in inflamed tissue, but translating this specific approach to routine use in people is still relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gale, Eric Michael — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Gale, Eric Michael
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.