New MRI technique to improve stroke imaging
Official title: Dual Contrast pH-Weighted MRI for Stroke Imaging
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11045914 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new MRI method that can safely check the acidity levels in the brain after a stroke, helping doctors find areas that might be in danger and improve treatment choices for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $492,749 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS134810-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045914 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing acute ischemic stroke who are within the critical time window for treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have experienced strokes outside the acute phase or those with chronic conditions unrelated to stroke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a non-invasive MRI technique that can accurately assess the pH levels in brain tissue affected by stroke. By identifying areas at risk of damage, known as the penumbra, the technique seeks to improve treatment decisions for patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke. The approach utilizes amide proton transfer-weighted MRI, which has shown promise in detecting changes in tissue acidity, but aims to overcome current limitations that affect its accuracy and speed. This could allow for more personalized treatment options for stroke patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of stroke patients who may benefit from timely interventions, potentially reducing long-term disability.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using MRI techniques for stroke assessment, but this specific approach is novel and aims to enhance existing methods.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jin, Tao — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Jin, Tao
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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.