Understanding Spinal Cord Changes in Multiple Sclerosis with Advanced MRI
Investigation of discrete neurodegenerative changes of the in vivo multiple sclerosis spinal cord using 7T MRI
['FUNDING_R21'] · CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU · NIH-11140986
This project uses advanced MRI scans to better understand how multiple sclerosis affects the spinal cord, especially in people experiencing worsening symptoms.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11140986 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project focuses on understanding why some people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience a slow but steady worsening of their symptoms, often linked to spinal cord damage. Researchers believe that specific types of damage, called "intermediate lesions," might be a key factor in this progression. Using a very powerful 7T MRI scanner, this project aims to see if these intermediate lesions can be clearly identified in living patients and if they are located in specific areas of the spinal cord. By detecting these subtle changes, we hope to gain a clearer picture of how MS progresses and causes disability.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this type of research would be people living with multiple sclerosis, particularly those experiencing progressive symptoms or spinal cord involvement.
Not a fit: Patients without multiple sclerosis or those whose symptoms are not related to spinal cord neurodegeneration would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more precise detection of spinal cord damage in MS, potentially guiding future treatment strategies to slow disease progression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work using postmortem tissue has identified these "intermediate lesions," suggesting a promising foundation for detecting them in living patients with advanced MRI.
Where this research is happening
CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES
- CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU — CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MAHAJAN, KEDAR — CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU
- Study coordinator: MAHAJAN, KEDAR
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.