Using advanced MRI techniques to improve epilepsy diagnosis

MR Fingerprinting for Epilepsy

['FUNDING_R01'] · CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU · NIH-11072313

This study is looking at a new way to find tiny brain changes in people with focal epilepsy who have normal MRI scans, using a special technique called MR Fingerprinting, to help doctors better understand their condition and improve treatment options.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11072313 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the detection of subtle brain lesions in patients with focal epilepsy who do not show identifiable lesions on standard MRI scans. By employing a novel technique called MR Fingerprinting, the study aims to create detailed tissue property maps that can reveal changes in brain structure associated with epilepsy. The approach involves developing a fast and efficient imaging pipeline that allows for quick analysis and interpretation of MRI data, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes for patients. The goal is to make this advanced imaging technique widely available in clinical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults and children over 21 years old who have pharmacoresistant focal epilepsy and have undergone presurgical evaluation.

Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy who have identifiable lesions on conventional MRI scans may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the diagnosis and treatment outcomes for patients with epilepsy who currently have no identifiable lesions on traditional MRI scans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques for detecting subtle brain abnormalities, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in epilepsy diagnosis.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.