Using advanced MRI to predict treatment response in patients with brain artery disease
Official title: Longitudinal and quantitative MR plaque imaging for prediction of response to medical management in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerosis
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10579278 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special MRI scans can help us see changes in the fatty deposits in the brain's arteries, so we can better understand which patients might need different treatments for their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2021 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $353,191 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL147355-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10579278 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease who are at risk for recurrent strokes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-atherosclerotic causes of stroke or those who do not have symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to visualize and assess changes in atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries of the brain. By focusing on the characteristics of these plaques, the study aims to identify patients who may not respond well to standard medical treatments for intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD). The approach involves high-resolution imaging techniques that can capture detailed information about plaque features over time, potentially leading to more personalized treatment strategies. Patients will undergo MRI scans to monitor their condition and help determine the best course of action for their care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with intracranial atherosclerotic disease, reducing the risk of recurrent strokes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to assess vascular conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Zhaoyang — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Fan, Zhaoyang
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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.