Understanding how small blood vessels change with age using advanced MRI techniques
In vivo insights of small vessel changes with age using USPIO-enhanced MRI
This study is looking at how small blood vessels in the brain change as we get older, which might help us understand conditions like dementia, using a special MRI technique to see these tiny vessels more clearly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10413130 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in small blood vessels in the brain as people age, which may contribute to neurological disorders like dementia. By using a specialized MRI technique enhanced with ultra-small superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO), the study aims to visualize these tiny vessels in unprecedented detail. The approach combines expertise in MR physics and image processing to create high-resolution images that can reveal structural and functional changes in the microvascular system. This in vivo characterization could provide insights into the aging process and its impact on brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are interested in understanding the effects of aging on brain health.
Not a fit: Patients with acute neurological conditions or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potentially new treatments for age-related neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of advanced MRI techniques is established, this specific approach using USPIO for imaging small vessels in vivo is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ge, Yulin — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ge, Yulin
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.