Using advanced MRI to study the spinal cord in progressive multiple sclerosis

Multimodal, quantitative MRI in the lumbosacral spinal cord in progressive multiple sclerosis

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11074047

This study is looking at how new MRI techniques can help us see and understand damage in the lower part of the spine for people with progressive multiple sclerosis, which could lead to better treatment options and care for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11074047 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how advanced MRI techniques can better visualize and assess damage in the lumbosacral spinal cord of patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS). By focusing on areas of the spinal cord that are often overlooked by traditional MRI methods, the study aims to identify new imaging biomarkers that correlate with clinical disability. This could lead to improved understanding of disease progression and more informed treatment decisions for patients. The research will involve comparing MRI findings with clinical assessments to validate the effectiveness of these new imaging techniques.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis who may benefit from enhanced imaging techniques.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of multiple sclerosis or those without spinal cord involvement may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate assessments of disease progression in patients with progressive multiple sclerosis, ultimately improving treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques for assessing spinal cord pathology in multiple sclerosis, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.