Upgrading a small-animal MRI scanner for better imaging
Official title: Replacement of a pumped 11.74-T Small-Animal MRI Scanner with a 15.2-T System
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10854378 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is about upgrading an old MRI machine to a new, more powerful one at Washington University in St. Louis, which will help researchers get clearer pictures of small animals for important medical studies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,000,000 |
| NIH project number | 1S10OD036323-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10854378 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include those involved in preclinical studies of diseases, particularly in animal models.
✕Less likely to help
Patients not involved in preclinical research or those not using animal models for their conditions may not receive any direct benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This project aims to replace an outdated 11.74-Tesla small-animal MRI scanner with a new 15.2-Tesla system at Washington University in St. Louis. The new scanner will significantly enhance imaging capabilities, providing clearer and more detailed images of small animals used in preclinical research. By utilizing advanced technology, the upgraded system will improve the accuracy of various MRI experiments, including functional imaging and anatomical studies. This modernization addresses both the limitations of the current equipment and the sustainability issues related to helium consumption.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise imaging techniques that enhance our understanding of diseases and improve the development of new treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Similar upgrades in MRI technology have shown significant improvements in imaging quality and research outcomes in other institutions.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quirk, James Dennis — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Quirk, James Dennis
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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.