Using advanced MRI to measure airway problems in cystic fibrosis

Quantitation and Spatial Registration of Airways Dysfunction with Dynamic 19F MRI in Cystic Fibrosis

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10913441

This study is testing a new way to take MRI pictures of the lungs using a special gas to help doctors see how well the lungs are working in kids with cystic fibrosis, without any harmful radiation, so they can get a clearer picture of lung health over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10913441 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new imaging technique using a special gas to enhance MRI scans for patients with cystic fibrosis. The goal is to better visualize and quantify airway dysfunction without exposing patients to harmful radiation, making it safer for young children. Participants will undergo a type of MRI that uses perfluoropropane gas, allowing researchers to track changes in lung function over time. By comparing these results with traditional lung function tests, the study aims to determine if this new method provides more sensitive and useful information about lung health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, particularly children and adolescents.

Not a fit: Patients without cystic fibrosis or those who are not eligible for MRI due to other medical conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and treatment strategies for patients with cystic fibrosis.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using advanced imaging techniques in pulmonary diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Conditions Airway Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.