Using advanced imaging to detect inflammation in chronic liver diseases
Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Inflammation
This study is testing a new, non-invasive MRI technique to help doctors better spot inflammation in the liver, which could lead to earlier and more effective treatment for people with chronic liver diseases like fatty liver and hepatitis B.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11047908 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the diagnosis and management of chronic liver diseases (CLD) by developing a new imaging technique that can detect inflammation in the liver. Current methods rely on invasive biopsies, which are not ideal for monitoring chronic conditions. The study aims to utilize molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify inflammation more accurately and non-invasively, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and better treatment options for patients. By understanding the liver's inflammatory response, the research hopes to enhance the management of conditions like metabolically associated steatohepatitis and chronic hepatitis B infection.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic liver diseases, particularly those with metabolically associated steatohepatitis or chronic hepatitis B infection.
Not a fit: Patients with acute liver conditions or those without any liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of chronic liver diseases, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for diagnosing liver conditions, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gale, Eric Michael — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Gale, Eric Michael
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.