Understanding spinal cord changes in multiple sclerosis using advanced MRI technology
Official title: Investigation of discrete neurodegenerative changes of the in vivo multiple sclerosis spinal cord using 7T MRI
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10868830 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the spinal cord of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) can affect their level of disability, using advanced MRI technology to better understand the types of damage and how it relates to their symptoms and health over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | July 18, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $241,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS136961-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10868830 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who are experiencing progressive symptoms independent of inflammatory activity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage multiple sclerosis or those without significant spinal cord involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific changes in the spinal cord of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) can lead to varying levels of disability. By utilizing advanced 7T MRI technology, the study aims to identify and differentiate between types of lesions in the spinal cord, particularly focusing on those that may indicate neurodegenerative changes. The research will analyze the relationship between these lesions and functional impairments, providing insights into the progression of MS. Patients may be monitored over time to assess how these spinal cord changes correlate with their symptoms and overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of disability in patients with multiple sclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using advanced imaging techniques to study neurodegenerative changes in multiple sclerosis, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mahajan, Kedar — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Mahajan, Kedar
Related research
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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.