New MRI technology for safe imaging of brain stimulation devices

Reconfigurable MRI technology for safe and high-resolution imaging of deep brain stimulation at 3T

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10828437

This study is working on making MRI scans safer and more effective for people with deep brain stimulation devices, like those used for Alzheimer's, so they can get better care without worrying about any risks from the MRI.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10828437 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for patients with deep brain stimulation (DBS) devices, which are used to treat conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The project aims to develop innovative MRI methodologies that will allow safe imaging without the risk of harmful heating caused by the interaction between MRI and DBS leads. By creating reconfigurable MRI technology and establishing specific surgical guidelines for DBS implantation, the research seeks to enhance the compatibility of MRI with these devices, ultimately improving patient care and treatment monitoring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with deep brain stimulation devices who are also experiencing cognitive disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients without DBS implants or those not suffering from cognitive disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable safer and more effective imaging for patients with DBS devices, leading to better treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing compatible imaging techniques for patients with implanted devices, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.