Next-Generation MRI to Predict Bone Healing Using Virtual Testing
Official title: Next Generation MRI for Virtual Mechanical Testing of Bone Fracture Healing
Funded at University of Delaware · NIH-11421412 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new MRI-based method uses advanced imaging and computer models to predict how well broken bones are healing, starting with shinbone (tibial) fractures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Delaware NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 24, 2025 |
| Project end | August 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $498,108 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR083052-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11421412 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with tibial fractures or related bone injuries who could participate in imaging and modeling studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fractures outside the study focus or with conditions preventing MRI may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project tests a cutting-edge MRI approach (UTE-MRI) together with computer-based virtual mechanical testing to measure how well a bone is healing after a fracture. By comparing MRI-derived properties with actual biomechanical tests, it aims to predict healing outcomes earlier than standard methods. The study uses an animal model of tibial fractures to refine the imaging and modeling before broader human applications. If successful, the method could help clinicians tailor treatments and monitor healing more precisely.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with broken bones could receive faster, more accurate assessments of healing and more personalized care plans.
How similar studies have gone: Prior imaging and modeling approaches have shown promise in correlating MRI features with bone healing, but this translational validation is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Delaware
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hast, Michael William — University of Delaware
- Study coordinator: Hast, Michael William
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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.