MRI-visible genes and scans to precisely spot gene and cell therapies
Clinically Translatable MRI Reporter Genes and Imaging Methods with Ultra-High Specificity and Sensitivity
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11318955
This project creates MRI-friendly genes and imaging methods so doctors can clearly see where gene and cell therapies are and how active they are in the body.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11318955 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are engineering reporter genes that make treated cells produce a signal visible to MRI and are developing special MRI pulse methods (CEST MRI) to detect that signal with much higher specificity and sensitivity. They focus on lysine-rich protein (LRP) reporters and on changing how signals are generated and read to avoid weak, delayed, or misleading signals. The team will optimize the reporter proteins and MRI sequences in laboratory and preclinical settings to improve detection while minimizing the need for problematic contrast agents. The long-term aim is to adapt these tools for safe use in hospitals so clinicians can monitor gene therapy, oncolytic viruses, and cell-based treatments in real time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people receiving or being considered for gene therapy, oncolytic virotherapy, or cell-based treatments who are treated at centers offering these experimental imaging approaches.
Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving gene or cell therapies, or those who cannot undergo MRI (for example due to implanted incompatible devices), are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could let clinicians noninvasively track gene and cell therapies in real time with greater clarity, improving safety and treatment decisions.
How similar studies have performed: Related LRP reporter gene and CEST MRI approaches have shown promise in preclinical studies, but translating them into precise, routine clinical imaging remains largely novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FARRAR, CHRISTIAN T — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: FARRAR, CHRISTIAN T
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.